KARACHIKARACHI: Gutka use and trade continue across Sindh despite a 2019 law and repeated crackdowns. Court observations, police data and legal experts point to weak investigations and almost no convictions.
NATIONALOfficials say Afghan cross-border shelling in Bajaur killed nine civilians and injured 12 during March and April. The district administration said most victims were women and children, while eight houses were destroyed.
PoliticsPTI leaders returned to Adiala jail on Thursday after a two-week gap but were again denied a meeting with Imran Khan. Salman Akram Raja said the party would approach the Supreme Court again over the issue.
WorldDonald Trump criticised German Chancellor Friedrich Merz over comments on Iran, telling him to focus on the Russia-Ukraine war instead. Germany said it was prepared for a possible reduction in US troops while stressing the value of transatlantic ties.
SportsFormula One resumes in Miami after a month-long break, with Mercedes driver Kimi Antonelli seeking a third straight win. McLaren, Ferrari and Red Bull are also expected to be in contention as revised rules take effect.
SportsAfghanistan’s women footballers have welcomed a FIFA rule change allowing them to play official matches. Former captain Khalida Popal called it a historic moment and a basic human right after years of struggle.
SportsScott Parker has left Burnley by mutual consent after the club’s relegation from the Premier League. Assistant Mike Jackson will oversee the final four league matches as Burnley begin the search for a new head coach.
SportsSabastian Sawe received a hero’s welcome in Kenya after becoming the first athlete to run a sub-two hour marathon in race conditions in London. President William Ruto called it a defining moment in human endurance.
SportsJulian Alvarez’s penalty earned Atletico Madrid a 1-1 draw with Arsenal in the first leg of their Champions League semi-final. Arsenal were left frustrated after a late penalty award was overturned following a VAR review.
SportsFIFA’s Congress in Vancouver is set to focus on Iran’s absence, World Cup operational concerns and Russia’s ongoing ban. Gianni Infantino also faces scrutiny over ticket prices, immigration concerns and his ties to Donald Trump.
SportsDefending champion Zhao Xintong was beaten 13-10 by Shaun Murphy in the World Snooker Championship quarter-finals, extending the Crucible curse. Wu Yize and Mark Allen also advanced to the semi-finals.
NATIONALThe finance ministry says Pakistan’s external sector faces risks from global uncertainty and Middle East tensions, though key macroeconomic indicators remain stable. It projected April inflation at 8 to 9 per cent and reported a 3.3 per cent primary surplus.
