GTA 6 exact release date ‘leaked’ by video games store

A Uruguayan video games store has reportedly leaked the exact release date of Rockstar Games’ hotly-anticipated Grand Theft Auto (GTA) 6.

The store, called XUruguay, took the fans by surprise after a post revealed the exact release date of GTA 6, as per a gaming website.

The post, which was quickly removed from its store, claimed the Rockstar Games title will launch on September 17, 2025.

As per the post, GTA 6 will be released as a PlayStation 5 exclusive.

Reports said that the leak might have been a miscommunication between XUruguay and Rockstar Games.

Several fans mentioned that GTA 5 was released on the exact same date, September 17, 2013.

Read more: GTA 6: Rockstar Games’ official reaffirms 2025 release date

If the leak is to be believed, GTA 6 will be released exactly 12 years after the release of the previous title in the Grand Theft Auto series.

XUruguay later issued a statement to clarify the post which leaked the GTA 6 release date.

“Like all fans, we are super excited and looking forward to the release of GTA 6, we take as a reference the release of the previous game GTA 5 which was on September 17 2013,” the games store stated in a statement.

“It was not our intention to generate confusion and we want to clarify that we did not receive at any time, from any of the brands, any official information about the release date of the game. Like you, the only rumors that we are aware of are that it may be in Fall 2025 (September, October or November) but there is nothing officially confirmed and we have no other additional information,” it added.

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Mahira Sharma’s mother reacts to Mohammed Siraj dating rumours

Indian actor Mahira Sharma’s mother revealed if her daughter is dating cricketer Mohammed Siraj.

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A day after Indian media suggested that ‘Bigg Boss’ alum Mahira Sharma, is ‘romantically involved’ with Indian cricket team’s fast bowler Mohammed Siraj, her mother Sania Sharma has now dismissed the reports.

In a new interview with a local publication, the celebrity’s mother expressed her shock at the buzz and said, “What are you saying? People say anything. Now that my daughter is a celebrity, people will link her name with anyone, so should we believe them?”

She further refuted the speculations, dubbing the reports ‘completely false’.

It is worth noting here that Mahira Khan, who was previously in a relationship with ‘Bigg Boss 13’ co-contestant Paras Chhabra until the two parted ways in 2023, first sparked dating rumours with Mohammed Siraj last year, when the cricketer liked one of her pictures on Instagram, and the two started following each other on the social site.

This led to netizens speculating if something was brewing between the two celebrities.

Later an Indian publication quoted a source close to them to confirm their budding romance.

Also Read: Mohammed Siraj, Zanai Bhosle react to dating rumours

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Champions Trophy 2025: Afghanistan unveils jersey for maiden outing

The Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) has unveiled the team jersey for the upcoming Champions Trophy 2025, set to be hosted by Pakistan.

The ACB shared a video of Afghanistan players sporting the jersey which took inspiration from the country’s cultural heritage.

The team jersey for the Champions Trophy 2025 features patterns of the historic Jam Minaret in Ghor Province.

“Inspired by our rich cultural heritage, the jersey design beautifully blends the elegance of Naskh calligraphy with the geometric patterns of the historic Jam Minaret in Ghor Province,” the ACB wrote in a post on Instagram.

“As AfghanAtalan take the field, they will wear the spirit of unity, the determination of our nation, and the elegance of Jam. They will create history and keep Afghanistan’s name shining on the global stage!” it added.

 

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For their maiden outing in the Champions Trophy 2025, the side is placed in Group B alongside ODI World Cup 2023 champions Australia, England and South Africa.

Read more: Champions Trophy 2025: PCB shares ticket prices for Pakistan games

Afghanistan will kick off their campaign with a game against South Africa on February 21 in Karachi.

The side will face England in their second group stage game on February 26 in Lahore while they will play their last group stage game against Australia on February 28 in Lahore.

It is worth noting here that Champions Trophy 2025 is set to begin on February 19 with Pakistan, the defending champions and hosts, taking on New Zealand.

The tournament will consist of 15 matches, played across Rawalpindi, Lahore, and Karachi while India’s game have been scheduled in Dubai.

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Major, sepoy martyred, six Khawarij gunned down in North Waziristan IBO: ISPR

Pakistan Army Major and a sepoy embraced martyrdom, while six Khawarij were gunned down by security forces during North Waziristan Intelligence Based Operation (IBO), ARY News reported, quoting ISPR.

According to Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the intelligence-based operation was conducted in Mir Ali area of North Waziristan district of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

During the conduct of operation, troops effectively engaged the Khawarij location and resultantly, six Khwarij were gunned down.

Meanwhile, Major Hamza Israr, 29, and Sepoy Muhammad Naeem, 26, were martyred in the gunfight with the Khawarij.

Read More: Security forces kill 11 Khwarij in three KP operations

Sanitization operations are being carried out to eliminate any other Khawarji found in the area.

The ISPR further said that the security forces are determined to wipe-out the menace of terrorism and such sacrifices of our brave soldiers further strengthens our resolve.

Earlier, Pakistan Army sepoy embraced martyrdom as security forces thwarted an infiltration attempt at the Pak-Afghan border and killed four terrorists.

“The movement of a group of Khawarij, who were trying to infiltrate through the Pak-Afghan border, was picked up by the security forces in the Rajgal area of District Khyber,” the ISPR stated.

It added the security forces effectively engaged and thwarted their attempt to infiltrate the Pak-afghan border, resultantly, four Khawarij were killed.

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Kit Harington, Sophie Turner wrap up ‘The Dreadful’

‘Game Of Thrones’ co-stars Kit Harington and Sophie Turner have wrapped up the shoot of their next gothic horror film ‘The Dreadful’.

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Six years since HBO’s fantasy drama aired its final episode, co-stars Kit Harington and Sophie Turner, aka Jon Snow and Sansa Stark of the hit series, are now reuniting for a new horror film, set in medieval times.

Besides Turner and Harington, Irish actor Laurence O’Fuarain, who featured in an episode of the fantasy show’s season 5, has also joined his ‘GoT’ co-stars on ‘The Dreadful’, also featuring Jonathan Howard and Marcia Gay Harden.

The gothic horror is written and directed by Natasha Kermani and is set against the backdrop of War of the Roses, which also inspired author George R. R. Martin’s novel series ‘A Song of Ice and Fire’, adapted into the HBO series by David Benioff and D. B. Weiss.

‘The Dreadful’ is set to be distributed by True Brit Entertainment, while Turner co-produces the title along with Luke Daniels of Redwire Pictures/Tunnell, Patrick Hibler (Storyboard Media), Adam G. Simon, Bull Blumenthal, and Lucas Jarach.

As per the latest development, the filming for the project has wrapped up in Cornwall, however, no release slate has been announced for the film as yet.

Also Read: Sophie Turner breaks silence on divorce from Joe Jonas

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Missing Persons Commission head Faqir Mohammad Khokhar passes away

ISLAMABAD: Former Supreme Court (SC) judge and recently appointed Missing Persons Commission head Faqir Mohammad Khokhar, 80, has passed away.

As per details, the death of ex-SC judge was confirmed by his family members. The funeral prayer for Faqir Mohammad Khokhar will be offered in Lahore.

Justice Khokhar had been battling health issues for some time and was undergoing treatment at Services Hospital in Lahore.

Read more: Missing Persons Commission reports lowest cases in six Years

Faqir Mohammad Khokhar was recently appointed as the head of the Missing Persons Commission.

The Missing Persons Commission, tasked with investigating enforced disappearances, was first established in 2010, under the leadership of Justice (retd) Kamal Mansoor Alam.

Iqbal, the former NAB chairman, had been serving as the commission’s head since 2011.

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US tech stocks lose $1trln after Chinese firm unveils AI chatbot

The launch of DeepSeek, a new AI chatbot developed by a Chinese startup, has sent shockwaves through global markets, wiping over $1 trillion from the leading US tech index.

The AI model, seen as a direct competitor to OpenAI’s ChatGPT, has disrupted investors and shaken up the tech industry.

What truly rattled the industry was DeepSeek’s claim that it developed its latest model, the R1, at a fraction of the cost that major companies are investing in AI development, primarily on expensive Nvidia chips and software.

The development is significant given the AI boom, ignited by ChatGPT’s release in late 2022, has propelled Nvidia to become one of the world’s most valuable companies.

The Nasdaq Composite fell 3.1%, wiping out more than $1 trillion from its previous value of $32.5 trillion, as investors reacted to the implications of DeepSeek’s emergence.

Nvidia, a key player in providing the chips that power AI models, saw its market value fall sharply by 17%, ceding its position as the most valuable listed company in the US to Apple. Nvidia’s loss amounted to nearly $600 billion, while Google’s parent company Alphabet and Microsoft lost $100 billion and $7 billion, respectively.

DeepSeek, which surpassed OpenAI’s ChatGPT in both the US and UK Apple app stores over the weekend, has garnered significant attention.

Read more: DeepSeek hit by cyberattack as users flock to Chinese AI startup

US President Donald Trump called the development a “wake-up call” for the US, emphasizing the need to stay competitive with China’s growing prowess in AI technology. He praised the lower cost and faster AI methods being developed by Chinese companies.

OpenAI’s CEO Sam Altman also acknowledged DeepSeek’s launch, describing it as invigorating to see new competition in the field. He noted that DeepSeek’s offering was impressive, particularly in terms of affordability and performance.

However, DeepSeek’s debut was marred by a cyber-attack on Monday, which temporarily halted new user registrations.

The company confirmed it had suffered a “large-scale malicious attack” and, after investigating, took steps to secure its platform. Existing users were not impacted and could still access the service.

DeepSeek claims to have developed its AI models using fewer chips than its competitors, making the technology cheaper to produce and raising questions about the ongoing multibillion-dollar AI investments from US tech giants.

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Coldplay pulls off biggest concert ever in India

British rock band Coldplay pulled off their biggest-ever concert in Ahmedabad, India, on Sunday, with over a lac Indian fans in attendance.

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The final show of their five-gig Indian tour, Coldplay recorded the biggest ever ticketed concert for the country, with 1.34 lac concertgoers, witnessing the magic of the band, live at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, on Republic Day.

With this record number of attendees at their final show in India, Coldplay surpassed its rivals like Canadian popstar Justin Bieber and Punjabi music sensation Diljit Dosanjh by a huge margin, both of whom last witnessed a maximum of 50,000 fans in their individual concerts.

Previously, Indian rapper Yo Yo Honey Singh also claimed to have attracted 2 lac concertgoers to one of his shows in West Bengal, however, the claim was never verified.

Meanwhile, the largest audience recorded for Coldplay, before their latest show, was 83,000, who watched the musicians perform live in Sydney last November.

Also Read: ‘We could be sent to prison…’: Coldplay receives letter from Jasprit Bumrah’s lawyer

It is worth noting here that the huge seating capacity alone of over 1 lac spectators at the Narendra Modi Stadium allowed the band to host nearly 1.4 lac concertgoers to their show, giving them an edge over their competitors, who held their concerts at smaller stadiums.

Besides 1.34 lac live attendees of the show, the performance was also streamed live by millions of Indian viewers on Disney+ Hotstar.

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WATCH: Jomel Warrican imitates Sajid’s celebration in second Test

West Indies spinner Jomel Warrican was on song as he dismantled the Pakistan batting lineup with his match-winning fifer in the second PAK v WI Test.

The left-arm spinner finished the second game with 9/70 to help West Indies win a Test on Pakistan soil after 34 years.

With a victory in the final game, the tourists also levelled the two-match PAK v WI Test series 1-1.

Jomel Warrican also played an essential role in helping his team post 163-run total in their first inning as he scored 36 runs.

In Pakistan’s first inning, the left-armer took four wickets to help West Indies bundled out Pakistan for 154 in their first inning.

Read more: WATCH: Sajid Khan channels John Cena in second WI Test

During West Indies’ second inning, Warrican was involved in a funny banter with Pakistan spinner Sajid Khan.

The incident took place on Day 2 when Sajid Khan bowled a slower and fuller delivery to Warrican who attempted a big shot.

However, he completely missed the line of the ball which spun sharply and went past his stumps.

As Jomel Warrican was completely beaten by the spinning delivery, Sajid Khan made WWE superstar John Cena’s ‘you can’t see me’ gesture to Warrican.

The West Indies spinner did not hesitate to return the favour when he castled Khan on Day 3 of the second PAK v WI Test.

The Pakistan spinner was the last batter to fall to Warrican who celebrated by imitating his ‘you can’t see me’ gesture and the famous ‘thigh five’ celebration.

It is to be noted here that West Indies won the second game by 120 runs after bowling out Pakistan for 133 as they were chasing a target of 254 in the second inning.

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ICC Awards 2024: Richard Illingworth named umpire of the year

England’s Richard Illingworth has been named the International Cricket Council Umpire of the Year in the ICC Awards 2024.

The former England player began his umpiring career in 2005 with women’s cricket and later moved to men’s cricket in 2010.

Richard Illingworth was included in the ICC Elite Panel of Umpires in 2013 and has since officiated several high-profile games such as the semi-final between India and New Zealand in the ODI World Cup 2019 and the ODI World Cup 2023 final between India and Australia.

The former England player was also the on-field umpire during the T20 World Cup 2024 final between India and South Africa last year.

Illingworth’s win at the ICC Awards 2024 is his fourth as he lifted The David Shepherd Trophy, named after the legendary English umpire David Shepherd, in 2019, 2022, and 2023.

ICC took to X to announce his win during the ICC Awards 2024.

Read more: Babar Azam only Pakistani player in ICC T20I Team of the Year for 2024

“Congratulations to Richard Illingworth on being named the 2024 ICC Umpire of the Year,” the ICC wrote in its post.

Before his umpiring career, Richard Illingworth played nine Tests for England in which he picked up 19 wickets.

He appeared in 25 ODIs for his country, claiming 30 wickets and contributing 68 runs.

Following his retirement from international cricket, the former England player began a career in umpiring and has since officiated in 74 Tests, 93 ODIs, and 35 T20Is.

It is worth noting here that Australia’s Simon Taufel has won The David Shepherd Trophy five consecutive times between 2004 and 2008.

Pakistan’s Aleem Dar won the accolade three times in 2009, 2010 and 2011.

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Justice Mansoor raises ‘objections’ on intra-court appeal bench

ISLAMABAD: Justice Mansoor Ali Shah has raised objections to the composition of the intra-court appeal bench, ARY News reported citing sources.

According to sources, the objection were raised specifically with the inclusion of Justices Jamal Mandokhail and Muhammad Ali Mazhar in the bench.

Justice Shah expressed his concerns in a letter to the judges’ committee, citing that both justices are part of the Constitutional Committee, which had previously transferred the case to itself that was initially being heard by Justice Shah.

Justice Shah had initially proposed a five-member bench for the intra-court appeal, but the Chief Justice suggested that a four-member bench would suffice. However, when the bench was formed, it included six judges, prompting Justice Shah’s objection.

Earlier, Additional Registrar Judicial, Nazar Abbas challenged the contempt notice issued by Supreme Court (SC) against him.

As per details, Nazar Abbas has also filed an application seeking a stay order on the contempt proceedings initiated against him.

The Supreme Court (SC), acknowledging Nazar Abbas’s intra-court appeal, has constituted a six-member larger bench to hear the case. A six-member bench formed under the chairmanship of Justice Jamal Khan Mandokhail will take up the plea on January 27.

According to the court’s official notification, the bench comprises Justice Muhammad Ali Mazhar and Justice Athar Minallah, both of whom bring extensive judicial expertise to the proceedings; additionally, Justice Hassan Azhar Rizvi, Justice Shahid Waheed, and Justice Musarrat Hilali have also been included in the larger bench, ensuring a robust and comprehensive adjudication of the appeal.

Read more: Supreme Court issues contempt show-cause notice to Addl Registrar

On January 20, the Supreme Court (SC) issued show-cause notice of contempt of the court to its Additional Registrar Nazar Abbas, ordering him to appear in person.

Barrister Salahuddin during the hearing of a case informed the bench headed by Justice Mansoor Ali Shah that the court had ordered to fix the case today, but the cause list was not issued.

“Why the case with regard to the Supreme Court benches powers, was not fixed before the court,” Justice Shah asked as he summoned the court official.

Deputy Registrar Zulfiqar Ahmed appeared before the court and informed about the leave of the additional registrar.

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Fourth aid convoy to ‘depart’ for Parachinar today

KURRAM: A fourth aid convoy, comprising 70 vehicles loaded with essential supplies, all set to depart for Parachinar today, ARY News reported citing official sources.

According to official sources, the convoy will carry flour, sugar, fruits, vegetables, and medicines to support the affected population.

This aid convoy is reportedly the largest to date, in terms of the quantity of relief supplies. The district administration and police will ensure the security of the convoy, with security forces also on standby to provide assistance, sources added.

In addition to the aid convoy, the distribution of compensation to those affected by the recent incidents in Kurram will commence today. The authorities are working to provide relief and support to the affected communities.

Earlier, security forces took control of Bagan Bazaar in Kurram, aiming to restore order in the region.

Several bunkers, four each belonging to the Watezai tribe and Tori tribe in Irfani Kalay, have been vacated during the operation.

Also read: Kurram: Body of driver found, killed in relief convoy attack

In the light of attacks on convoys and unrest, a search operation has been launched to apprehend the culprits.

According to tribal elder Haji Kareem, door-to-door searches are being conducted to locate the miscreants involved.

Security sources confirmed that the operation is focused on eliminating threats and ensuring safety of travelers and residents in the area.

On January 18, Deputy Commissioner Kurram Javedullah Mehsud said that a major operation will be launched in four locations of the district to eliminate the terrorists.

He said the displaced persons being relocated to Tal and Hangu for their safety.

Days after a peace agreement between the warring tribes was finally reached, violence flared up in the restive region once more as Kurram DC sustained injuries in a firing incident.

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Govt to provide written response on PTI demands by Jan 28

ISLAMABAD: The government negotiation committee will provide a written response to Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) on judicial commission formation demand by January 28, ARY News reported.

According to spokesperson for the government committee Irfan Siddiqui, the response will address the PTI’s demands, including the formation of a judicial commission to investigate the May 9 riots.

The government committee has been reviewing the PTI’s charter of demands and has sought legal opinions on the matter. While the committee has not yet made a decision on the formation of a judicial commission, consultations will continue, and several issues are under consideration.

On the other hand, the PTI refused to sit in the next round of talks with the government until it announces constitution of the judicial commission.

Head of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf’s negotiating committee, Omar Ayub, has said that his party will not attend the fourth round of dialogue with the government until formation of the judicial commission.

Chairman PTI Barrister Gohar has said that the opposition party will attend the next round of talks if the government affirms formation of the commission.

Also read: PTI refuses next sitting of talks until Commission’s announcement

Sahibzada Hamid Raza, a member of the PTI’s negotiating team has also demanded of the government to announce the judicial commission, after which a meeting could decide the terms of reference (ToRs) of the commission.

Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf presented its demands during the third round of negotiations and called for the establishment of two Commissions of Inquiry. The first to investigate the events of May 9 and the legality of PTI’s chairman’s arrest, while the second examines incidents occurring between November 24 and 27, 2024 during the PTI’s protest in Islamabad.

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Govt ‘forms’ body to halt operations of Utility Stores Corporation

The federal cabinet has decided to shut down the operations of the Utility Stores Corporation across Pakistan and has formed a committee to oversee the process, ARY News reported on Wednesday, citing sources.

As per details shared by sources, the committee will be led by the federal minister for Industry and Production, and it will consist of a seven-member team.

The committee includes the minister of state for Finance and Revenue, the minister of State for Information Technology, the Federal Secretary of Finance, and the Secretary of Industry and Production.

Additionally, the committee will have the Secretary of Privatization and the Secretary of the Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP) as members.

Sources indicate that the committee will establish the procedure for the immediate closure of operations at Utility Stores Corporation and outline measures for securing the corporation’s properties and assets. It will also make arrangements for the maintenance and protection of these assets.

Read more: 446 utility stores ‘closed’ after subsidy withdrawal

The committee is tasked with assessing how to integrate the corporation’s employees into a surplus pool and reviewing the possibility of merging them into positions within other government entities, the sources said. Furthermore, a coordination strategy with BISP will be developed to ensure the timely delivery of Ramadan packages.

The Ministry of Industry and Production will provide secretarial support for the committee, which is expected to submit its report to the Federal Cabinet within seven days.

Once the operations are shut down, the Utility Stores Corporation will no longer be able to engage in sales or purchases.

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Taylor Swift to perform at Gautam Adani’s son’s wedding in India?

American pop superstar Taylor Swift is reportedly set to perform in India for the first time, at the wedding of Indian billionaire Gautam Adani’s son.

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As reported by Indian media, popstar Taylor Swift is in talks for her maiden gig in the country, however, at a private event – the wedding of billionaire business tycoon Gautam Adani’s son Jeet.

According to the buzz, the impending wedding of Adani Group’s heir Jeet with his fiancee Diva Shah, the daughter of diamond tycoon Jaimin Shah, is expected to be the next big fat Indian wedding, after last year’s spectacle of Anant Ambani and Radhika Merchant. While no dates have been confirmed as yet, they are expected to tie the knot later this year. And if reports are to be believed, talks with Swift are underway to perform at one of their pre-wedding events.

Quoting a source close to the development, an Indian publication reported, “Taylor Swift’s team is in talks with the Adanis to perform at one of the pre-wedding festivities of Jeet Adani and Diva Shah.”

“Even though Taylor has not confirmed her presence as of now, talks are underway and looks like the grand wedding will mark her first performance in India,” the person maintained.

Also Read: What is brewing between Diljit Dosanjh and Taylor Swift?

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Vivian Dsena breaks silence after losing ‘Bigg Boss 18’

Indian TV superstar Vivian Dsena finally broke his silence on losing ‘Bigg Boss 18’ to Karan Veer Mehra, despite being the top favourite for the season.

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After 15 weeks of intense competition, the latest season of the Indian reality show ‘Bigg Boss’ came to an end last night, with Karan Veer Mehra beating the other five finalists, including Vivian Dsena, Avinash Mishra, Rajat Dalal, Chum Darang and Eisha Singh, to lift the trophy and take home the title along with the cash prize of INR50 lacs.

However, these results came as an absolute shocker for ‘Bigg Boss’ fans all around when the ‘Pyaar Kii Ye Ek Kahaani’ actor did not win season 18, despite being the face of Colors and a ‘laadla’.

 

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Reacting to the defeat, Dsena said, “I’ve won so many hearts, so I’m not losing anything here. That’s my biggest achievement.”

“For me, to be a part of a captive reality show has always feared me and I’ve conquered that in Bigg Boss, all because of my fans and viewers,” he continued. “So I think I should be the last one to be ungrateful.”

“I’m very grateful to my fans and viewers. Thank you so much for all the love and support. This was not at all possible without you guys,” he concluded.

Also Read: Triptii Dimri, 30, says she has grown up watching Vivian Dsena, 36

While Dsena maintained his cool and had no regrets after losing the show, his wife Nouran Aly was visibly disappointed and was spotted losing her calm on the media reporters, as seen in the videos doing rounds on social media.

 

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مجرموں کو چھوڑ کر جنگل میں چیتوں کا پیچھا کرنے والی وکیل

آرزو کھرانہ نے ملک میں چیتوں کی 56 آماجگاہوں کا دورہ کرنے کے لیے انڈیا بھر میں 203 دن کا سفر کیا۔ آرزو کا خیال ہے کہ وہ پہلی شخص ہیں جس نے یہ سفر کیا۔

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Pakistan confirms survival of 21 citizens in Morocco boat tragedy

The spokesperson for Pakistan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has confirmed that 21 Pakistani nationals survived the recent boat tragedy in Morocco.

In response, the Pakistani embassy in Rabat has been promptly mobilized to assist the affected citizens.

The embassy has arranged for immediate provisions, including food, water, medicines, and clothing for the survivors. Local authorities at the Moroccan port are providing shelter and medical aid to the stranded Pakistanis, as per the spokesperson’s statement.

A consular team from the embassy is currently in Morocco overseeing the relief operation, ensuring the well-being of the citizens.

Read more: Morocco boat tragedy: Committee formed by PM initiates investigation

Pakistan’s government is collaborating with relevant authorities to provide further assistance.

The Pakistan government is also working on facilitating the repatriation of the affected citizens. The spokesperson reaffirmed Pakistan’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding its citizens abroad and stated that the situation will continue to be closely monitored.

Earlier, the Foreign Office (FO) of Pakistan confirmed the incident of Pakistani migrants’ boat capsizing off Moroccan coast.

The Foreign Office said that a boat carrying 80 passengers, including several Pakistani nationals, setting off from Mauritania, has capsized near the Moroccan port of Dakhla.

Read more: FIA arrests two more suspects linked to Greece boat tragedy

MoFA said in a press release that the Pakistan Embassy in Rabat (Morocco) has informed that several survivors, including Pakistanis, are lodged in a camp near Dakhla.

Migrant rights group Walking Borders said on Thursday that 44 of those presumed to have drowned were from Pakistan.

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Kurram: Protest sit-in in Mandori, main highway still closed

KURRAM: A protest sit-in continuing in Mandori area of Lower Kurram as the main highway of the strife-torn region has still been closed despite a peace deal.

The district administration has said that the talks ongoing with participants of the sit-in adding that all possible steps being taken to bring the situation to normal.

An anti-terrorism operation likely to begin in several areas of Lower Kurram in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa after attack on a convoy carrying supplies for Para Chinar and other areas of Kurram district.

The district authorities earlier issued a notification announcing of temporary displacement people (TDP) camps in anticipation of a possible anti-terrorism operation in the region.

The decision came after an attack on a convoy in Bagan area, which resulted in killing of two personnel and five missing drivers, whose bodies were recovered on Friday.

Lawlessness in the region and roadblocks have disrupted supplies to the district for long time causing severe shortage of edibles, medicines and other essential items.

The district administration has said that the bunkers being demolished at Balash Khel and Khar Kalay areas of Lower Kurram. Officials said that seven bunkers have been demolished in the area so far.

Section 144 has been imposed in the strife-torn Kurram district for a period of two months with ban over exhibition of arms and gathering of four or more people.

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پاکستان ویسٹ انڈیز ٹیسٹ سیریز: میلکم مارشل کی 13 گیندیں اور 35 برس کا انتظار

سنہ 1990-91 میں ویسٹ انڈیز کے دورہِ پاکستان کا دوسرا ٹیسٹ میچ تھا۔ کراچی ٹیسٹ میں سلیم ملک کی فاتحانہ سنچری اور عمران خان کی پانچ گھنٹے پہ محیط مزاحمت نے پاکستان کو آٹھ وکٹوں کی وہ فتح دلائی جو صرف عددی ہی نہیں، نفسیاتی اعتبار سے بھی واضح برتری تھی۔

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Bushra Bibi arrested after conviction in £190 million case

RAWALPINDI: Former first lady, Bushra Bibi, was taken into custody following conviction in a £190 million Al-Qadir Trust case, ARY News reported.

Bushra Bibi reached Adiala Jail to join her incarcerated husband as the NAB court was scheduled to pronounce its verdict in the Toshakhana-II case.

An Accountability Court awarded a 14-year jail term to Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder Imran Khan in a £190 million Al-Qadir Trust case.

Judge Nasir Javed Rana pronounced the verdict at Adiala Jail where accused Imran Khan and Bushra Bibi were present  Bushra Bibi was awarded seven years imprisonment.

The court also imposed fines of Rs1 million and Rs500,000 on Imran Khan and Bushra Bibi respectively. Both individuals would have to face additional prison time if they fail to pay the fines.

Imran Khan and Bushra Bibi would have to face additional face six-month and three-month imprisonments in case of non-payment. Bushra Bibi was taken into custody from the courtroom in Rawalpindi.

The accountability court also ordered to take Al-Qadir University into government custody.

The verdict was earlier deferred thrice on December 23, January 6 and once again on January 13.

Read more: PTI founder, Bushra Bibi convicted in £190m Al-Qadir Trust case

Accountability court judge Nasir Javed Rana reserved the verdict on December 18 after conducting several hearings at Adiala Jail. The accountability court took almost one year to complete the hearing of the case with prosecution team and defence lawyers completing their arguments.

Al-Qadir University case

The National Accountability Bureau (NAB) launched an investigation against Imran Khan and his wife and others for the alleged gain of hundreds of canals of land in the name of Al Qadir University Trust, which reportedly caused a loss of 190 million pounds to the national exchequer.

As per the charges, the former prime minister and others accused allegedly adjusted Rs50 billion — 190 million pounds at the time — sent by Britain’s National Crime Agency (NCA) to the government.

The NAB filed a corruption reference against Imran and seven others, including his wife, in connection with the Al-Qadir University.

The PTI chief registered Trust for Al-Qadir University Project on Dec 26, 2019.

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Jasprit Bumrah dismisses bed rest reports

Indian fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah has dismissed rumors regarding his complete bed rest and uncertainty over his participation in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.

Taking to the microblogging platform X, Bumrah dismissed the reports as fake news.

“I know how easy it is to spread fake news, but this one really made me laugh,” he posted, accompanied by several laughing emojis.

On Wednesday, January 15, several Indian media outlets claimed that Jasprit Bumrah, who has been dealing with a back issue, has gone on bed rest and is unlikely to participate in the Champions Trophy.

According to reports, Jasprit Bumrah sustained the back injury during the Sydney Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy against Australia.

During the series, he bowled a total of 151.2 overs across five matches and emerged as the most successful bowler, taking 32 wickets.

The reports further suggested that the updates on Bumrah’s back condition were not encouraging, adding that he would not rush his return to cricket. The medical experts reportedly advised him to take complete bed rest.

Read more: Jasprit Bumrah likely to miss ICC Champions Trophy 2025

It is to be noted that several former Indian cricketers expressed concerns over Jasprit Bumrah’s workload which was evident in the fourth AUS v IND game at the MCG which the hosts won by 184 runs.

Following the Boxing Day Test, Rohit Sharma was asked if India risked over-bowling Bumrah.

“Yeah, there is. To be honest, he has bowled a lot of overs. There is no doubt about it. But again, every Test match we play, we keep that in mind. You know, the workloads of all the bowlers in fact. But again, if somebody is in such a great form, you want to try and maximise that form how much ever you can. And that is what we’ve been trying to do with Bumrah,” the Indian captain said.

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Imran Riaz, Gill booked in Maryam-UAE president’s fake picture case

ISLAMABAD: The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) nominated Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leader Shahbaz Gill and journalist Imran Riaz Khan in a case pertaining AI-generated social media content involving Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz and United Arab Emirates (UAE) President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, ARY News reported citing sources.

According to details, the FIA has already arrested three individuals from Lahore, Muzaffargarh, and Faisalabad for running a social media campaign against the Punjab chief minister and UAE President.

The FIA Cybercrime Wing has also nominated Shahbaz Gul and Imran Riyaz in the case, and efforts are being made to arrest them soon.

The arrested individuals, identified as Nadeem Javed, Muhammad Ejaz, and Amer Abbas, are accused of creating and disseminating fake videos targeting high-profile personalities, including the Punjab CM and UAE President.

Cases have been registered against the accused for running a malicious campaign against the dignitaries. Further investigations are underway to apprehend other suspects involved in the case.

A combined investigation team has been formed comprising deputy directors from Faisalabad, Gujranwala, Multan, and Lahore to arrest other suspects.

According to the FIA sources, 20 social media accounts responsible for sharing fake images of Maryam Nawaz have been identified. Besides arresting three suspects, the FIA is also conducting raids to apprehend the remaining culprits.

Read more: Culprits behind Maryam Nawaz’s viral edited pictures to face the music

To widen the scope of the investigation, a joint investigation team has been constituted, with Additional Director Sarfaraz Chaudhry appointed as its head. The team includes Deputy Directors from Lahore, Multan, and Faisalabad.

Earlier, the FIA Cybercrime Wing launched investigation into the edited pictures of Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz on social media.

The inquiry was initiated following a request from the Punjab government. The edited pictures, which appear to show Maryam Nawaz with the President of the UAE, were widely shared on social media platforms.

The FIA stated that action will be taken against those responsible for uploading and sharing the edited content.

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Netflix docu-series ‘The Greatest Rivalry – India vs Pakistan’ gets a release date

Streaming giant Netflix has set the February release date for the cricket docu-series ‘The Greatest Rivalry – India vs Pakistan’.

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Ahead of the Champions Trophy and its most-anticipated, high-profile India-Pakistan clash, cricket fans are in for another treat in February, from the streaming giant, all set to finally premiere the much-awaited docu-series ‘The Greatest Rivalry’, announced Netflix India on Monday.

“Two nations. One epic Rivalry. 1.6 Billion prayers. Come witness the thrill of a legacy like no other in The Greatest Rivalry: India vs Pakistan,” captioned the date announcement post, adding that the title arrives on the portal on February 7.

 

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As per the description, the docu-series, which includes the never-seen-before insights from the cricket greats of neighbouring countries, ‘explores the drama, passion, and high-stakes intensity of this rivalry on the home soil of both nations’.

Also Read: Netflix drops trailer for Hrithik Roshan family docuseries

Chandradev Bhagat and Stewart Sugg co-directed docu-series, backed by Grey Matter Entertainment, features cricket legends like Shoaib Akhtar, Waqar Younis, Javed Miandad, Inzamam-ul-Haq, Sourav Ganguly, Virender Sehwag, Sunil Gavaskar and Ravichandran Ashwin among others.

Meanwhile, the arch-rivals will next face each other on February 23, in the 5th fixture of the Champions Trophy 2025, starting from February 19. Pakistan will play against New Zealand in the inaugural clash.

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WhatsApp users to get Meta AI widget for home screens

Meta-owned platform WhatsApp is set to launch a new widget, enabling users to access Meta AI directly from their Home Screen.

According to a report from WaBetaInfo, this feature was identified in the latest WhatsApp beta version 2.25.1.27 for Android.

The primary objective of this new feature is to facilitate easy access to Meta AI without the need to open the WhatsApp application. Once implemented, the widget will allow users to initiate conversations with Meta AI directly from their Home Screen, bypassing the WhatsApp interface.

Read also: Step by step guide to create AI images on WhatsApp

Additionally, the widget will provide a shortcut for users to capture and share photos with Meta AI, enabling functionalities such as photo editing or content analysis directly from the widget.

It is important to note that this feature is still in development and is anticipated to be rolled out to users in the upcoming weeks. This enhancement aims to streamline the experience for Meta AI users by reducing the steps required to access the application.

In parallel, the Meta-owned messaging platform is also developing a feature that will enable users to create and customise their own AI chatbots within the app.

Read also: WhatsApp to introduce ‘human chat support’ feature for users

This functionality will allow users to design AI companions by specifying their personalities, goals, and tasks. The behaviour of the AI will be tailored according to the user’s descriptions, assisting with tasks such as motivation and management.

While there is no official timeline for this feature, it is expected to be available in the near future.

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SBP announces advance MPC meetings calendar

The State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) announced the half-yearly schedule of Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) meetings on a rolling basis.

As per the issued schedule the first meeting of the calendar year 2025 will be convened on Monday January 27 and decisions of the monetary policy committee will be announced later by the governor SBP in a press conference.

The next MPC meeting is scheduled on Monday March 10 and the third meeting as per the half yearly schedule will be held on May 5 while the fourth MPC meeting is scheduled on June 16.

Read more: SBP slashes policy rate by 200 basis points

In its last MPC meeting on December 16, the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) slashed policy rate by 200 basis points.

It added that the inflation declined to 4.9 percent on a year-to-year basis in November2024, in line with the ‘MPC’s expectations’.

“This deceleration was mainly driven by the continued decline in food inflation as well as the phasing out of the impact of the hike in gas tariffs in November 2023. However, the committee noted that core inflation, at 9.7 percent, is proving to be sticky, whereas inflation expectations of consumers and businesses remain volatile,“ the SBP added.

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Gold rates in Saudi Arabia; January 11, 2025

The rate of 24-karat gold in Saudi Arabia stands at 3,747 Saudi Riyals (SAR) per tola as of Saturday, January 11, 2025.

According to details from Forex.pk, the cost for 10 grams of 24-karat gold in Saudi Arabia stands at SAR 3,216. Additionally, the price for an ounce of gold is SAR 10,003.

It is important to note that gold prices are subject to global market fluctuations, including those specific to Saudi Arabia, with the last update recorded at 12:25 am on January 11, 2025.

Gold, a highly valued precious metal, has maintained its significance for centuries and plays a vital role in the global economy.

Its value stems from its scarcity, durability, and widespread appeal. Frequently regarded as a safe-haven asset, gold is employed to preserve wealth during times of economic instability.

Central banks and investors maintain gold reserves to diversify their investment portfolios and protect against inflation and currency value fluctuations.

Read also: Gold rates go up in Pakistan

The inherent allure and limited availability of gold render it a sought-after material for jewellery and luxury items. The demand for gold jewellery stimulates economic activity across the mining, manufacturing, and retail sectors.

Gold Rates: Today in Pakistan

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Operation underway to rescue trapped miners in Sanjdi

QUETTA: A rescue operation conducted by the Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) is underway to save labourers trapped in the Sanjdi coal mine near Quetta, ARY News reported.

According to PDMA, four bodies have been recovered out of a total of 12, while efforts continue to locate the remaining eight individuals.

Rescue teams have cleared debris to a depth of 3,600 feet to access the area. The incident took place on Thursday when 12 miners were trapped following an explosion that led to the collapse of a coal mine located near Quetta.

Read More: Harnai: Bodies of 12 miners, four injured retrieved

A similar incident was happened in March 2024, when 18 miners were trapped in a coal mine in Harnai, Balochistan.

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SC questions trial procedure of cases in military courts

ISLAMABAD: The Supreme Court (SC) is hearing a case related to military courts, where several judges have raised concerns about the trial process and the qualifications of officers making decisions.

The bench, headed by Justice Aminuddin Khan, heard intra-court appeals challenging the decisions of military courts. The bench also comprised Justices Jamal Khan Mandokhail, Muhammad Ali Mazhar, Syed Hasan Azhar Rizvi, Naeem Akhtar Afghan, Musarrat Hilali, and Shahid Bilal Hassan.

At the outset of the hearing, Justice Jamal Mandokhail urged the need to be convinced about the military trial procedure.

“Does the officer conducting the trial have the necessary experience and competence to pass severe sentences, including the death penalty?”

Justice Musarrat Hilali questioned the practice of the officer conducting the trial not being the one to issue the verdict, pointing out that the trial officer refers the case to a senior officer for the final decision. She raised concerns about how an officer who has not heard the trial could be the one to decide the outcome.

Read more: SC bench questions how distinction was made between cases tried in military courts, ATCs

Justice Naeem Afghan discussed the nature of military trials, noting that although the general perception is that military courts only pass sentences, the process is more involved. He shared his experience hearing cases against court martial decisions at the Balochistan High Court. He also mentioned that military trials allow for a defense attorney, just like in civilian courts.

Justice Hassan Azhar Rizvi added that in military courts, the trial procedures, including arguments from lawyers and cross-examination of witnesses, are similar to those in regular courts. The only difference is that a military officer serves as the judge.

Justice Jamal Mandokhail further reflected on his own 38 years of experience in law, stating, “I still do not consider myself perfect.”

He questioned whether an officer sitting in a military court could be perfect enough to impose such severe sentences.

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Bushra Bibi held back-door meetings: ARY talk show host

ISLAMABAD: Bushra Bibi has held back-door meetings, there are three persons dealing it, Muhammad Malik disclosed this in ARY News talks show ‘Khabar’.

Host Muhammad Malik revealed that PTI founder’s wife Bushra Bibi, has held four meetings so far. “Her first meeting was held on 26, second on 30th December, third on January 1st and fourth on January 05,” the host divulged dates of Bushra Bibi’s back-door meetings in his tv program.

“PTI’s founder has also verified that what Bushra Bibi is doing is correct,” he further said.

Shaikh Waqas Akram, a PTI leader, has denied the news revealed in the talk show.

The disclosure in ARY News talk show comes amid an impression after the second round of talks that the political talks between the government and the PTI were not moving in right direction and facing a deadlock. A delay in issuance of permission to the PTI negotiating team to visit Adiala jail to meet with their party leader for consultation further added to the impression.

There were media reports about back-door talks with the PTI’s founder, which were vehemently denied by the party’s leaders.

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Pakistan’s economic growth lags behind regional countries

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s exports are lagging behind neighbouring countries like Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Egypt, and India as the country’s economy has been struggling to keep up with its regional counterparts, ARY News reported.

According to official documents, Pakistan’s exports account for only 10 percent of its Gross domestic product (GDP) as compared to up to 27 percent in other regional countries.

The country’s export sector has been declining over the past decade, with its share of GDP dropping from 13percent in 2010 to 10percent in 2024. In contrast, India’s exports account for 22percent of its GDP, while Bangladesh’s exports make up 13percent of its GDP, the documents read.

Pakistan’s spending on education and healthcare is also lower compared to other regional countries. The country allocates only 0.8percent of its GDP towards healthcare services, compared to 1.1percent in India and 1.9percent in Sri Lanka. Similarly, Pakistan’s education expenditure accounts for only 1.9percent of its GDP, compared to 4.1percent in India.

Pakistan’s economic growth has been slow, with an average annual growth rate of 3.9percent over the past decade. The country’s GDP per capita is also lower compared to other regional countries, standing at $1,463 in 2023, compared to $1,654 in India.

Earlier, the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics (PBS) reported that the exports from the country increased by 10.52 percent during the first half of the current fiscal year as compared to the corresponding months of last year.

Exports during July-December (2024-25) were recorded at $16.561 billion against $14.985 billion during July-December (2023-24), according to PBS data.

On the other hand, imports into the country went up by 6.11 percent by growing from $26.137 million last year to $27.733 million during the first six months of the current year.

Based on the figures, the trade deficit during the months under review was recorded at $11.172 billion against the deficit of $11.152 billion last year, showing a slight increase of 0.18 percent.

Meanwhile, on year-on-year basis, the exports in December 2024 increased by 0.67 percent to $2.841 billion from $2.822 billion in December 2023.

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