**Islamabad/London** – Hamish Falconer, the UK Parliamentary Under Secretary of State for the Middle East, Afghanistan, and Pakistan, stated that the United Kingdom cannot comment on individual extradition cases involving alleged criminals from Pakistan. Falconer emphasized that both Pakistan and the UK governments could collaborate at an official level to address those who violate laws pertaining to serious criminal judgments.
Addressing broader foreign policy, Falconer affirmed the British government’s commitment to matching aid contributions for the Middle East pound-for-pound. He underscored the critical importance of recognizing Palestine as a state, describing the raising of the Palestinian flag at the Palestinian Embassy in London as an honour. Regarding Gaza, Falconer asserted that no entity, including Israel, could impede the delivery of humanitarian aid, reiterating the UK’s support for a complete and permanent ceasefire in the region. He also confirmed that the UK would maintain full communication with both Pakistan and India on all matters, unequivocally stating there would be no compromise on Pakistan’s security and stability.
**Pakistan’s Internal Affairs and Security Challenges**
Domestically, in a politically charged statement, Rana Sanaullah claimed that national affairs were being conducted according to the directives of Faiz Hameed, General Bajwa, and the founder of PTI.
A summary report from security agencies highlighted the persistent threats of bombings and targeted attacks across the country. It also noted that despite challenging conditions, the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa police force receives no additional financial incentives. In efforts to curb organized crime, action was taken against extortion groups led by Wasiullah Lakho and Abdul Samad Katthiawari, based on intelligence and technical evidence.
Bilal bin Saqib announced a significant development, stating that a structured, transparent, and globally benchmarked pathway for international exchanges has been established for the first time in history. This initiative is aimed at fostering new thinking and institutional transformation.
**Law Enforcement and Urban Crime**
Emergency services data from the “15” helpline indicated a 28% reduction in crime-related calls. However, law enforcement agencies remain active. A Rangers spokesperson reported the apprehension of suspects involved in smuggling mobile phones from Balochistan, concealed in hidden compartments. In Karachi, police arrested several individuals, including Jawad Qadri and Shahzeb Mullah, on charges of involvement with an extortion gang. Separately, a body was recovered from the office of a foreign airline at Karachi’s Jinnah Terminal, identified as the airline’s station manager. Police officials also confirmed the discovery of a missing woman’s body in Sector 11.5 of Orangi Town. In Kot Samaba, police reported that robbers looted 600,000 Pakistani Rupees from a citizen before fleeing.
The National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) issued a statement rejecting propaganda disseminated by specific political elements. An Islamabad court, meanwhile, issued a written reconciliation order between parties in the case concerning the deaths of two scooty riders, Samarain Hussain and Tabinda Batool, who were killed in a vehicle collision.
**Traffic, Weather, and Elections**
Motorway Police confirmed the closure of Motorway M-1 from Peshawar to Rashakai due to adverse conditions. Heavy snowfall has also disrupted traffic flow on mountainous routes, with potential road closures reported in several areas.
Regarding ongoing elections, polling will continue uninterrupted until 5 PM. Out of 178 polling stations, 84 have been designated as sensitive and 54 as highly sensitive.
**Sports and Entertainment Update**
In a symbolic gesture, wrestling icon John Cena left his shoes, armbands, and wristbands in the ring, hinting at a potential retirement. On the entertainment front, the Pakistani reality show ‘Lazawal Ishq’, which drew comparisons to the British series ‘Love Island’, has been removed from YouTube in Pakistan after 50 episodes were aired.
In international sports news, foreign media reported altercations between England’s security staff and local media representatives in Brisbane and Adelaide. Separately, actress Hania Aamir has garnered attention not only for her natural beauty but also due to reports of alleged cosmetic procedures over recent years.
