A Pakistani court has awarded the death sentence to four men for uploading blasphemous content on Facebook, an official said on Saturday. Watch in for more details!

Pakistani court hands death sentence to four; Amnesty says Pak misusing blasphemy laws

Security forces killed 30 terrorists during three separate counter-terrorism operations in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) said on Saturday.

Pakistan: Army conducts operations in three districts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa

Pakistan: 18 terrorists killed in Lakki Marwat: Army

<p>Thirty terrorists were killed in three separate counter-terrorism operations in Pakistan's Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province on Saturday (Jan 25), the military said.</p>
<p>The counter-terrorism operations were conducted in Lakki Marwat, Karak, and Khyber districts.</p>
<p>While 18 terrorists were "sent to hell" in Lakki Marwat district, eight were killed in Karak, the army said in a statement. The military said six terrorists were also injured in the Lakki Marwat encounter.</p>
<p>In another encounter in the Bagh area of Khyber district, security forces gunned down four terrorists, including ring leaders Aziz ur Rehman aka Qari Ismail and Mukhlis, while two terrorists sustained injuries, it said.</p>
<p>Weapons and ammunition were also recovered during the counter-terrorism operations, the statement said.</p>
<p>President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif in separate statements praised the security forces for their successful operations in Lakki Marwat, Karak, and Khyber districts.</p>
<p>President Zardari hailed the killing of 30 terrorists as a significant achievement and reaffirmed that the security forces' operations will continue until terrorism is completely eradicated.</p>
<p>Prime Minister Shehbaz reiterated the nation's unwavering support for the security forces, emphasising that Pakistan is fully committed to eliminating all forms of terrorism.</p>
<p>In recent months, Pakistan has stepped up intelligence-based operations against Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), which has become emboldened since the Afghan Taliban seized power in Afghanistan in 2021. The TTP or Pakistan Taliban is a separate group, but a close ally of the Afghan Taliban.</p>
<p>On January 17, five terrorists were killed in an intelligence-based operation in Khyber district&rsquo;s Tirah area.</p>
<p>The year 2024 was the deadliest for Pakistan's civil and military security forces in a decade with at least 685 fatalities and 444 terror attacks, according to &ldquo;CRSS Annual Security Report 2024&rdquo; issued by the Centre for Security and Strategic Studies.</p>
<p>Equally alarming was the cumulative losses of civilians and security personnel -- 1,612 fatalities, accounting for over 63% of the total recorded in 2024, marking 73% more losses compared to 934 outlaws eliminated, The News reported citing CRSS report.</p>
<p>The overall fatalities recorded in 2024 were a record 9-year high and over 66% more than in 2023.</p>
<p>On average, nearly seven people lost their lives daily in 2024, with November emerging as the deadliest month across all metrics, compared to all other months of the year.</p>
<p>The violence took the heaviest toll on Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, which topped in human losses with 1,616 fatalities, followed by Balochistan with 782 fatalities.</p>
<p>In 2024, the country suffered 2,546 violence-linked fatalities and 2,267 injuries among civilians, security personnel and outlaws.</p>
<p>This tally of casualties stemmed from 1,166 incidents of terror attacks and counter-terror operations, marking a grim year for the country's security landscape.</p>
<p>Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.</p>

Pakistan security forces successfully neutralized terrorists in three separate operations across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, showcasing their commitment to national security.

Thirty terrorists were killed in three separate counter-terrorism operations in Pakistan's Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province on Saturday (Jan 25), the military said. The counter-terrorism operations were conducted in Lakki Marwat, Karak, and Khyber districts. While 18 terrorists were "sent to hell" in Lakki Marwat district, eight were killed in Karak, the army said in a statement. The military said six terrorists were also injured in the Lakki Marwat encounter. In another encounter in the Bagh area of Khyber district, security forces gunned down four terrorists, including ring leaders Aziz ur Rehman aka Qari Ismail and Mukhlis, while two terrorists sustained injuries, it said. Weapons and ammunition were also recovered during the counter-terrorism operations, the statement said. President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif in separate statements praised the security forces for their successful operations in Lakki Marwat, Karak, and Khyber districts. President Zardari hailed the killing of 30 terrorists as a significant achievement and reaffirmed that the security forces' operations will continue until terrorism is completely eradicated. Prime Minister Shehbaz reiterated the nation's unwavering support for the security forces, emphasising that Pakistan is fully committed to eliminating all forms of terrorism. In recent months, Pakistan has stepped up intelligence-based operations against Tehrik-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), which has become emboldened since the Afghan Taliban seized power in Afghanistan in 2021. The TTP or Pakistan Taliban is a separate group, but a close ally of the Afghan Taliban. On January 17, five terrorists were killed in an intelligence-based operation in Khyber district’s Tirah area. The year 2024 was the deadliest for Pakistan's civil and military security forces in a decade with at least 685 fatalities and 444 terror attacks, according to “CRSS Annual Security Report 2024” issued by the Centre for Security and Strategic Studies. Equally alarming was the cumulative losses of civilians and security personnel -- 1,612 fatalities, accounting for over 63% of the total recorded in 2024, marking 73% more losses compared to 934 outlaws eliminated, The News reported citing CRSS report. The overall fatalities recorded in 2024 were a record 9-year high and over 66% more than in 2023. On average, nearly seven people lost their lives daily in 2024, with November emerging as the deadliest month across all metrics, compared to all other months of the year. The violence took the heaviest toll on Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, which topped in human losses with 1,616 fatalities, followed by Balochistan with 782 fatalities. In 2024, the country suffered 2,546 violence-linked fatalities and 2,267 injuries among civilians, security personnel and outlaws. This tally of casualties stemmed from 1,166 incidents of terror attacks and counter-terror operations, marking a grim year for the country's security landscape. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Pakistan: Security forces killed 30 terrorists in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa

30 Pakistani terrorists were killed in three separate encounters in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Province. An intelligence-based operation was conducted by security forces in Lakki Marwat District.

BREAKING | 30 Pakistani Terrorists Killed In 3 Separate Encounters

Pakistan's PTI party has confirmed that negotiations with the government are now on hold following their decision to call off the discussions, escalating tensions in the country's political landscape.

Pakistan's PTI says talks with govt on hold after calling them off

Pakistan has passed a new law allowing the government to block digital platforms and imprison users accused of spreading disinformation, raising concerns about freedom of speech and online censorship.

Pakistan introduces law to block platforms and imprison users for spreading 'disinformation'

Imran Khan directed his party to halt negotiations with the government due to its failure to establish judicial commissions as agreed. Watch this report for more details!

Pakistan: Imran Khan directs PTI to halt talks with government

<p dir="ltr"><span>Pakistan government on Thursday (Jan 23) introduced a new law to regulate social media, sparking concerns that it will stifle free speech and undermine democratic freedoms.&nbsp;</span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>The law, passed by the country's lower house of parliament, gives the government sweeping powers to block online content, fine or ban social media platforms, and even imprison users for spreading disinformation.</span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>As per the law, social media companies need to register with a government-controlled authority, and gives officials the power to immediately block content deemed "unlawful and offensive," such as criticism of judges, the military, or the government itself.&nbsp;</span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>Individuals and organisations posting such content can also be blocked from platforms.</span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>Also read |<strong> </strong></span><strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/algorithm-sucks-musk-says-he-will-lose-his-mind-over-nazi-salute-posts-on-his-x-feed-8648774">&lsquo;Algorithm sucks,&rsquo; Musk says he will &lsquo;lose his mind&rsquo; over &lsquo;Nazi salute&rsquo; posts on his X feed</a></strong></p>
<h2 dir="ltr"><strong>3-year prison term and fine for spreading 'disinformation'</strong></h2>
<p dir="ltr"><span>Anyone who spreads &ldquo;disinformation&rdquo;, will be fined 2 million Pakistani rupees ($7,150) and punished by up to three years in prison.</span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>Human rights activists, including Farhatullah Babar, are sounding the alarm over Pakistan's new law, warning that it severely curtails freedom of expression and hands excessive power to the executive branch.</span></p>
<h2 dir="ltr"><strong>Opposition and media organisations criticise move</strong></h2>
<p dir="ltr"><span>The PTI (Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf) leaders have criticised the legislation of this law. The leader of the opposition Omar Ayub Khan, said that the bill could "lay a foundation for the suppression of voices advocating for constitutional rights."</span></p>
<p dir="ltr">On Thursday, the PTI said it was ending talks with the government ahead of a Jan. 28 deadline to meet with Khan. The announcement by Gohar Ali Khan, chairman of the PTI party, came weeks after he began talks with the government to secure the release of the former prime minister and discuss other demands.</p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>Also read | </span><strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/brain-ageing-could-be-fault-of-mothers-x-chromosome-study-suggests-8648977">Brain ageing could be fault of Mother&rsquo;s X chromosome, study suggests</a></strong></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>Journalists and media organisations have also condemned Pakistan's proposed social media law, expressing deep concerns about its implications. The Federal Union of Journalists president, Afzal Butt, called the law an attempt to "suppress the media, social media and journalists."</span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>However, the government claimed that the law is necessary to combat the spread of misinformation and hate speech. Critics on the other hand argue it will be used to silence dissent and control public discourse.</span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>This move comes at a time when press freedom in Pakistan is already under increasing pressure. Journalists report facing state pressure, and many media outlets have been instructed to avoid mentioning Imran Khan by name.</span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>

World: Pakistan's new social media law, introduced in January, raises concerns about potential impacts on free speech and democratic principles, sparking public debate.

Pakistan government on Thursday (Jan 23) introduced a new law to regulate social media, sparking concerns that it will stifle free speech and undermine democratic freedoms. The law, passed by the country's lower house of parliament, gives the government sweeping powers to block online content, fine or ban social media platforms, and even imprison users for spreading disinformation. As per the law, social media companies need to register with a government-controlled authority, and gives officials the power to immediately block content deemed "unlawful and offensive," such as criticism of judges, the military, or the government itself. Individuals and organisations posting such content can also be blocked from platforms. Also read | ‘Algorithm sucks,’ Musk says he will ‘lose his mind’ over ‘Nazi salute’ posts on his X feed 3-year prison term and fine for spreading 'disinformation' Anyone who spreads “disinformation”, will be fined 2 million Pakistani rupees ($7,150) and punished by up to three years in prison. Human rights activists, including Farhatullah Babar, are sounding the alarm over Pakistan's new law, warning that it severely curtails freedom of expression and hands excessive power to the executive branch. Opposition and media organisations criticise move The PTI (Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf) leaders have criticised the legislation of this law. The leader of the opposition Omar Ayub Khan, said that the bill could "lay a foundation for the suppression of voices advocating for constitutional rights." On Thursday, the PTI said it was ending talks with the government ahead of a Jan. 28 deadline to meet with Khan. The announcement by Gohar Ali Khan, chairman of the PTI party, came weeks after he began talks with the government to secure the release of the former prime minister and discuss other demands. Also read | Brain ageing could be fault of Mother’s X chromosome, study suggests Journalists and media organisations have also condemned Pakistan's proposed social media law, expressing deep concerns about its implications. The Federal Union of Journalists president, Afzal Butt, called the law an attempt to "suppress the media, social media and journalists." However, the government claimed that the law is necessary to combat the spread of misinformation and hate speech. Critics on the other hand argue it will be used to silence dissent and control public discourse. This move comes at a time when press freedom in Pakistan is already under increasing pressure. Journalists report facing state pressure, and many media outlets have been instructed to avoid mentioning Imran Khan by name. (With inputs from agencies)

Pakistan government cracks down on social media, introduces law to block platforms, imprison users for spreading 'disinformation’

Imran Khan directs his party to halt negotiations with the government due to its failure to establish judicial commissions as agreed.

Imran Khan calls off talks with government over Judicial commission issue

<p>After being missing for 21 days and sparking rumours of abduction or death, popular Pakistani YouTubers Sohaib Chaudhry and Sana Amjad reappeared on Tuesday (Jan 22).&nbsp;</p>
<p>Sohaib, in a video on Tuesday, revealed that he was abducted and tortured by members of a significant political party who pressured him to join their organisation.&nbsp;</p>
<p>He said that private gunmen entered his house and kidnapped him.&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pakistani-doctor-accused-of-terrorism-seeks-pardon-before-biden-leaves-office-8634620" rel="dofollow">Pakistani doctor accused of terrorism seeks pardon before Biden leaves office</a></strong></p>
<p>&ldquo;I&rsquo;m openly challenging them: Sohaib Chaudhry was not afraid. He is not; he will never be. If someone is harming Pakistan. I&rsquo;ll speak against him while staying within the boundaries of the law,&rdquo; he said in the video.&nbsp;</p>
<h2>'Will not spare those who attacked me'</h2>
<p>&ldquo;I don&rsquo;t know if I can upload another video. But, if I can, I&rsquo;ll strip Pakistan&rsquo;s enemies naked. I&rsquo;ll not spare those who attacked me. I&rsquo;ll show you evidence of what they did,&rdquo; he added.</p>
<p>The two YouTubers have been known for creating content related to India and Pakistan.&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hilarious-internet-cracks-up-as-pakistani-doctor-complains-about-foul-smell-in-china-8627824" rel="dofollow">&lsquo;Hilarious,&rsquo; Internet cracks up as Pakistani doctor complains about &lsquo;foul smell&rsquo; in China</a></strong></p>
<p>Sana Amjad also posted a video, sharing her traumatic experience. She revealed that her family was targeted in an attempt to silence her.&nbsp;</p>
<p>She further alleged that her mother was tortured due to the content on her YouTube channel.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Earlier in the past, Sana has often praised India and promoted peaceful relations between the two countries.&nbsp;</p>
<p>She further said that she would continue making the videos despite the threats.&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-incomplete-without-pakistan-occupied-kashmir-declares-rajnath-singh-in-fierce-warning-8621124" rel="dofollow"> India &lsquo;incomplete&rsquo; without Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, declares Rajnath Singh in fierce warning</a></strong></p>
<p>&ldquo;In 1947, two countries got their independence. One of them progressed while the other did not. Why could that country not progress? Who&rsquo;ll take that country ahead? All of us have to take that responsibility,&rdquo; she said in her video.</p>
<p>&ldquo;I still don&rsquo;t know the effect of this video. I don&rsquo;t know if I will be able to upload another video. But Sana Amjad will not bow down,&rdquo; Sana added.</p>
<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/overwhelmed-malala-yousafzai-back-in-pakistan-for-girls-education-summit-snubbed-by-taliban-8610533" rel="dofollow">'Overwhelmed' Malala back in Pakistan for girls&rsquo; education summit snubbed by Taliban</a></strong></p>
<p>Sohaib in his video stressed, "It's a chance that my death could become a reality in the coming days, but I will continue to tell right from wrong, no matter what."</p>
<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

World | South Asia | Pakistan: Sohaib, in a video on Tuesday, revealed that he was abducted and tortured by members of a significant political party who pressured him to join their organisation. 

After being missing for 21 days and sparking rumours of abduction or death, popular Pakistani YouTubers Sohaib Chaudhry and Sana Amjad reappeared on Tuesday (Jan 22). Sohaib, in a video on Tuesday, revealed that he was abducted and tortured by members of a significant political party who pressured him to join their organisation. He said that private gunmen entered his house and kidnapped him. Also read: Pakistani doctor accused of terrorism seeks pardon before Biden leaves office “I’m openly challenging them: Sohaib Chaudhry was not afraid. He is not; he will never be. If someone is harming Pakistan. I’ll speak against him while staying within the boundaries of the law,” he said in the video. 'Will not spare those who attacked me' “I don’t know if I can upload another video. But, if I can, I’ll strip Pakistan’s enemies naked. I’ll not spare those who attacked me. I’ll show you evidence of what they did,” he added. The two YouTubers have been known for creating content related to India and Pakistan. Also read: ‘Hilarious,’ Internet cracks up as Pakistani doctor complains about ‘foul smell’ in China Sana Amjad also posted a video, sharing her traumatic experience. She revealed that her family was targeted in an attempt to silence her. She further alleged that her mother was tortured due to the content on her YouTube channel. Earlier in the past, Sana has often praised India and promoted peaceful relations between the two countries. She further said that she would continue making the videos despite the threats. Also read: India ‘incomplete’ without Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, declares Rajnath Singh in fierce warning “In 1947, two countries got their independence. One of them progressed while the other did not. Why could that country not progress? Who’ll take that country ahead? All of us have to take that responsibility,” she said in her video. “I still don’t know the effect of this video. I don’t know if I will be able to upload another video. But Sana Amjad will not bow down,” Sana added. Also read: 'Overwhelmed' Malala back in Pakistan for girls’ education summit snubbed by Taliban Sohaib in his video stressed, "It's a chance that my death could become a reality in the coming days, but I will continue to tell right from wrong, no matter what." (With inputs from agencies)

'Will not bow down', Pakistan YouTubers reappear after going missing, claim were abducted and tortured

Pakistan's President is set to visit China next month for a crucial three-day trip aimed at strengthening bilateral ties and enhancing cooperation.

Pakistan's President to embark on three-day visit to China next month

Leaders of former PM Imran Khan’s party met Pakistan army chief General Asim Munir and held separate talks with a government delegation, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf chairman Gohar Khan said on Thursday. Watch this story to know more!

Senior Leaders Of Imran Khan's PTI Meet Pak Army Chief To Ease Political Tensions

Pakistan's Former Prime Minister and PTI Chief Imran Khan has accused the military of human-rights abuses and called for the end of a 'brutal dictatorship'. Watch this story to know more!

Pakistan: Imran Khan accuses military of human-rights abuses

Pakistan: Imran Khan calls for end to military's 'brutal dictatorship'

Pakistan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed that 21 Pakistani nationals survived a tragic boat incident off Morocco's coast.

21 Pakistanis Identified Among Moroccan Boat Tragedy Survivors

There are 26 million children out of school in Pakistan according to a government report. And most of them are from rural areas from low-income families. The report shows up big gaps in education between the rich and poor, termed education apartheid. The Pakistani government has promised corrective measures, even as other exigencies beckon. A closer look on Inside South Asia.

Pakistan: 26 million children out of school

A boat carrying 80 migrants attempting to reach Spain capsized near Morocco, with over 40 Pakistanis reportedly among the dead. Watch this report for more details!

Pakistani migrants drown seeking a better life

Former Pakistan prime minister Imran Khan was sentenced to 14 years in jail in the Al-Qadir trust graft case on Friday (Jan 17). Khan's wife, Bushra Bibi, was also sentenced to seven years in connection to the case. Watch in for more details!

Pakistani court convicts ex-PM Imran Khan, Bushra Bibi in Al-Qadir trust case

Imran Khan sentenced to 14 years in prison in Al-Qadir trust case

Imran Khan convicted in Al-Qadir Trust case

Pakistan on Thursday said that a boat carrying 80 migrants attempting to reach Spain capsized near Morocco, with over 40 Pakistanis reportedly among the dead. Watch this report for more details!

Migrant boat with 80 passengers capsizes near Morocco; over 40 Pakistanis feared drowned

Migrant boat en route Spain capsizes near Morocco, over 40 Pakistanis feared drowned

<p>In a tragic incident, over 40 Pakistanis lost their lives after a boat carrying 80 migrants en route to Spain capsized near Morocco, said the Pakistan Foreign Office in a statement on Thursday (Jan 16).</p>
<p>As per the migrant rights group, Walking Borders, up to 50 people may have drowned in the tragedy.</p>
<p>Moroccan authorities managed to rescue 36 people a day earlier from the boat that had left Mauritania on January 2 with 86 migrants, including 66 Pakistanis.</p>
<p><strong>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-wont-enforce-tiktok-ban-leaves-it-to-trump-as-january-19-deadline-approaches-8628535" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Biden won't enforce TikTok ban, leaves it to Trump as January 19 deadline approaches</a></strong></p>
<p>Walking Borders CEO Helena Maleno said that 44 of those who died were Pakistanis.</p>
<p><span>"Fifty people died on a boat heading to the Canary Islands, forty-four of the victims were Pakistanis. </span>They spent 13 days of anguish on the crossing without anyone coming to rescue them," she wrote on X.</p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="es" dir="ltr">🔴TRAGEDIA. Mueren cincuenta personas en un cayuco que se dirig&iacute;a a las islas Canarias, cuarenta y cuatro de las v&iacute;ctimas eran paquistan&iacute;es. Pasaron trece d&iacute;as de angustiosa traves&iacute;a sin que llegar&aacute; el rescate.</p>
&mdash; Helena Maleno Garz&oacute;n (@HelenaMaleno) <a href="https://twitter.com/HelenaMaleno/status/1879791185079803932?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 16, 2025</a></blockquote>
<p>
<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</p>
<h2><strong>Team from the Pakistan embassy sent to help victims</strong></h2>
<p>The Pakistan Foreign Office stated that its embassy in Morocco is in constant communication with local authorities to assist with rescue operations. A team from the Pakistani embassy in Morocco has also been sent to Dakhla to support Pakistani nationals and provide necessary assistance.</p>
<p><strong>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-korean-suspended-president-yoon-suk-yeol-defies-second-day-of-questioning-after-arrest-amid-martial-law-probe-8628565">South Korea's suspended President Yoon defies second day of questioning after arrest amid martial law probe</a></strong></p>
<p>"Our Embassy in Rabat (Morocco) has informed us, that a boat carrying 80 passengers, including several Pakistani nationals, setting off from Mauritania, has capsized near the Moroccan port of Dakhla. Several survivors, including Pakistanis, are lodged in a camp near Dakhla. Our Embassy in Rabat is in touch with local authorities. Additionally, a team from the Embassy has been dispatched to Dakhla to facilitate the Pakistani nationals and provide necessary assistance," the statement said.</p>
<p>The Crisis Management Unit in the Foreign Ministry has also been activated.</p>
<p>"The Crisis Management Unit (CMU) in the Foreign Ministry has been activated and the Deputy Prime Minister / Foreign Minister has instructed the relevant Government agencies to extend all possible facilitation to the affected Pakistanis," the Pakistan Foreign Office added.</p>
<p><strong>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lakshadweep-indian-coast-guard-rescues-54-passengers-from-stranded-vessel-8624692">Lakshadweep: Indian Coast Guard rescues 54 passengers from stranded vessel</a></strong></p>
<h2><strong>PM Sharif expresses grief over the incident</strong></h2>
<p>Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressed grief for those who lost their lives in the incident. He also directed the Foreign Ministry to<span> coordinate with local authorities to locate the missing, rescue the survivors and bring back the remains of those who lost their lives in this tragedy.</span></p>
<p><span>"Deeply disturbing news of a boat capsizing off the coast of Morocco, carrying over 80 passengers including several Pakistanis, has come as a shock to me and to the entire nation. I have directed our Foreign Ministry to instruct its staff in Morocco to urgently ascertain the facts and coordinate with local authorities to locate the missing, rescue the survivors and bring back the remains of those who lost their lives in this tragedy," PM Sharif posted on X.</span></p>
<p><strong>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-and-bangladesh-exchange-185-fishermen-in-mutual-repatriation-effort-8594122">India and Bangladesh exchange 185 fishermen in mutual repatriation effort</a></strong></p>
<p><span>The PM also assured that strict action would be taken against those involved in the heinous act of human trafficking.</span></p>
<p><span>"We will continue to crack down hard on human traffickers and agents in Pakistan who lure innocent citizens into this dangerous trap," he said.</span></p>
<h2><strong>Similar incident happened in December, 2024</strong></h2>
<p>This incident comes a month after more than 80 Pakistanis drowned after boats carrying them capsized near Greece on the night between December 13 and 14, 2024.</p>
<p>Although, as many as 36 Pakistani citizens were rescued, the rest remain missing which, as per a report from the Pakistani Embassy, should be presumed dead.</p>
<p>The boats, which departed from Libya's Tobruk port also carried Bangladeshi, Egyptian and Sudanese nationals.</p>
<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>

World | Pakistan's PM Shehbaz Sharif expressed deep grief, directed urgent coordination for missing persons, and vowed to combat human trafficking networks.

In a tragic incident, over 40 Pakistanis lost their lives after a boat carrying 80 migrants en route to Spain capsized near Morocco, said the Pakistan Foreign Office in a statement on Thursday (Jan 16). As per the migrant rights group, Walking Borders, up to 50 people may have drowned in the tragedy. Moroccan authorities managed to rescue 36 people a day earlier from the boat that had left Mauritania on January 2 with 86 migrants, including 66 Pakistanis. Also read | Biden won't enforce TikTok ban, leaves it to Trump as January 19 deadline approaches Walking Borders CEO Helena Maleno said that 44 of those who died were Pakistanis. "Fifty people died on a boat heading to the Canary Islands, forty-four of the victims were Pakistanis. They spent 13 days of anguish on the crossing without anyone coming to rescue them," she wrote on X. 🔴TRAGEDIA. Mueren cincuenta personas en un cayuco que se dirigía a las islas Canarias, cuarenta y cuatro de las víctimas eran paquistaníes. Pasaron trece días de angustiosa travesía sin que llegará el rescate. — Helena Maleno Garzón (@HelenaMaleno) January 16, 2025 Team from the Pakistan embassy sent to help victims The Pakistan Foreign Office stated that its embassy in Morocco is in constant communication with local authorities to assist with rescue operations. A team from the Pakistani embassy in Morocco has also been sent to Dakhla to support Pakistani nationals and provide necessary assistance. Also read | South Korea's suspended President Yoon defies second day of questioning after arrest amid martial law probe "Our Embassy in Rabat (Morocco) has informed us, that a boat carrying 80 passengers, including several Pakistani nationals, setting off from Mauritania, has capsized near the Moroccan port of Dakhla. Several survivors, including Pakistanis, are lodged in a camp near Dakhla. Our Embassy in Rabat is in touch with local authorities. Additionally, a team from the Embassy has been dispatched to Dakhla to facilitate the Pakistani nationals and provide necessary assistance," the statement said. The Crisis Management Unit in the Foreign Ministry has also been activated. "The Crisis Management Unit (CMU) in the Foreign Ministry has been activated and the Deputy Prime Minister / Foreign Minister has instructed the relevant Government agencies to extend all possible facilitation to the affected Pakistanis," the Pakistan Foreign Office added. Also read | Lakshadweep: Indian Coast Guard rescues 54 passengers from stranded vessel PM Sharif expresses grief over the incident Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressed grief for those who lost their lives in the incident. He also directed the Foreign Ministry to coordinate with local authorities to locate the missing, rescue the survivors and bring back the remains of those who lost their lives in this tragedy. "Deeply disturbing news of a boat capsizing off the coast of Morocco, carrying over 80 passengers including several Pakistanis, has come as a shock to me and to the entire nation. I have directed our Foreign Ministry to instruct its staff in Morocco to urgently ascertain the facts and coordinate with local authorities to locate the missing, rescue the survivors and bring back the remains of those who lost their lives in this tragedy," PM Sharif posted on X. Also read | India and Bangladesh exchange 185 fishermen in mutual repatriation effort The PM also assured that strict action would be taken against those involved in the heinous act of human trafficking. "We will continue to crack down hard on human traffickers and agents in Pakistan who lure innocent citizens into this dangerous trap," he said. Similar incident happened in December, 2024 This incident comes a month after more than 80 Pakistanis drowned after boats carrying them capsized near Greece on the night between December 13 and 14, 2024. Although, as many as 36 Pakistani citizens were rescued, the rest remain missing which, as per a report from the Pakistani Embassy, should be presumed dead. The boats, which departed from Libya's Tobruk port also carried Bangladeshi, Egyptian and Sudanese nationals. (With inputs from agencies)

Over 40 Pakistanis die after boat en route to Spain capsizes near Morocco

Migrant boat capsizes near Morocco, over 40 Pakistanis reportedly drown

<p>A Pakistani doctor and content creator was brutally slammed by users on social media after he claimed that China smelled &ldquo;so bad&rdquo; upon landing in the country. Fani shared his video on Instagram, where it went viral within hours, amassing over 55,000 views. In his video, Fani said China&rsquo;s &ldquo;foul smell&rdquo; caused displeasure to him after he landed there.</p>
<h2><strong>Controversial post by Pakistani doctor</strong></h2>
<p>In his post, Fani wrote that people will be greeted by &ldquo;a very bad smell&rdquo; after they enter China. &ldquo;Those who don&rsquo;t live in China, I want to tell them that when you arrive here, you will be greeted with a very bad smell,&rdquo; wrote the doctor.</p>
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<p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DEyvQZkxNtB/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by FANI (@tmgfani)</a></p>
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<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/situation-across-lac-sensitive-but-stable-indian-army-chief-says-on-india-china-tensions-adding-that-patrolling-and-grazing-has-restarted-8618266">Situation across LAC 'sensitive but stable': Indian army chief says patrolling, grazing restarted</a></strong></p>
<p>&ldquo;When I had not even arrived in China and had just changed my flight from Dubai, I got such a bad smell on the flight. There were several Chinese people on board. But when I landed in China, there was an even worse smell. But you will learn to adjust with time, and you will get used to it. But they smell bad,&rdquo; the doctor added in his racist post.</p>
<h2><strong>Outrage on social media</strong></h2>
<p>People were quick to slam Fani for his distasteful comments. One user wrote, &ldquo;Hearing this from a Pakistani is hilarious,&rdquo; given the South Asian nation&rsquo;s poor record in cleanliness and sanitation.</p>
<p>&ldquo;Smells surely better than Pakistan,&rdquo; a second user quipped.</p>
<p><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/explainer-india-and-the-taliban-a-brief-history-from-1996-to-2025-8609003">Explainer: India &amp; the Taliban, a brief history from 1996 to 2025</a></strong></p>
<p>"China is hygienic and very clean and even people are so clean how u got a bad smell. I too have gone to China but never faced anything like this in any place here it's so clean and beautiful," a third user wrote.</p>
<p>A fourth added, &ldquo;Bro don't bad mouth any country, it's not that we are taught to do. Let Westerners do that, they are good at this. Respect the country which you are in and which allowed you to travel."</p>

World | In his post, the Pakistani doctor and content creator, Fani, wrote that people will be greeted by “a very bad smell” after they enter China

A Pakistani doctor and content creator was brutally slammed by users on social media after he claimed that China smelled “so bad” upon landing in the country. Fani shared his video on Instagram, where it went viral within hours, amassing over 55,000 views. In his video, Fani said China’s “foul smell” caused displeasure to him after he landed there. Controversial post by Pakistani doctor In his post, Fani wrote that people will be greeted by “a very bad smell” after they enter China. “Those who don’t live in China, I want to tell them that when you arrive here, you will be greeted with a very bad smell,” wrote the doctor. View this post on Instagram A post shared by FANI (@tmgfani) Also read: Situation across LAC 'sensitive but stable': Indian army chief says patrolling, grazing restarted “When I had not even arrived in China and had just changed my flight from Dubai, I got such a bad smell on the flight. There were several Chinese people on board. But when I landed in China, there was an even worse smell. But you will learn to adjust with time, and you will get used to it. But they smell bad,” the doctor added in his racist post. Outrage on social media People were quick to slam Fani for his distasteful comments. One user wrote, “Hearing this from a Pakistani is hilarious,” given the South Asian nation’s poor record in cleanliness and sanitation. “Smells surely better than Pakistan,” a second user quipped. Also read: Explainer: India & the Taliban, a brief history from 1996 to 2025 "China is hygienic and very clean and even people are so clean how u got a bad smell. I too have gone to China but never faced anything like this in any place here it's so clean and beautiful," a third user wrote. A fourth added, “Bro don't bad mouth any country, it's not that we are taught to do. Let Westerners do that, they are good at this. Respect the country which you are in and which allowed you to travel."

‘Hilarious,’ Internet cracks up as Pakistani doctor complains about ‘foul smell’ in China

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