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ARY NEWS

Farid Ahmed (Qureshi)

  • UK police return Haider Ali’s phone amid criminal investigation

    UK police return Haider Ali’s phone amid criminal investigation

    The United Kingdom’s Greater Manchester Police returned Pakistani cricketer Haider Ali’s phone on Friday amid the ongoing investigation, ARY News reported, citing sources.

    Sources privy to matter said that the Pakistani cricketer was kept in custody and investigated for three days after he was accused of rape during Pakistan Shaheens’ tour to England.

    According to sources, the right-handed batter chose to remain silent during the investigation and responded with “No comment” to queries of the Greater Manchester Police officials.

    The sources went on to reveal that the UK officials have returned him his phone, suggesting that the authorities have not find any evidence against him from the device.

    While Haider Ali was reportedly taken into custody on August 4, news about the criminal investigation emerged after the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) announced its decision to suspend the 24-year-old cricketer.

    In a press release a day earlier, the PCB confirmed criminal charges levelled against the Pakistani cricketer and maintained that it ensured that he received appropriate legal support to protect his rights throughout this process.

    “The PCB fully respects the legal procedures and processes of the United Kingdom and acknowledges the importance of allowing the investigation to run its due course,” the Pakistan Cricket Board said.

    The PCB also provisionally suspended Haider Ali, pending the outcome of the ongoing investigation.

    “Once the legal proceedings are concluded and all facts have been duly established, the PCB reserves the right to take appropriate action under its Code of Conduct, if necessary,” the Pakistan Cricket Board said.

    It is worth noting here that Haider Ali made his international debut for Pakistan in 2020.

    He has since played in 35 T20I and two ODIs for the national side.

  • Pakistan vs India WCL 2025 match cancelled

    Pakistan vs India WCL 2025 match cancelled

    BIRMINGHAM: The much-anticipated World Championship of Legends 2025 (WCL) clash between arch-rivals Pakistan and India, scheduled to take place today in Birmingham, has been called off due to objections raised by Indian players.

    According to sources, the Indian side refused to take the field citing the inclusion of former Pakistan captain Shahid Afridi in the playing XI.

    Prominent Indian players including Yuvraj Singh, Suresh Raina, Harbhajan Singh, Yusuf Pathan, and Irfan Pathan, reportedly conveyed their unwillingness to participate if Afridi represented Pakistan.

    The event organisers of WCL also confirmed that all ticket holders will receive a full refund, the official X account of Edgbaston Stadium announced.

    The Indian players are said to have maintained, “If Shahid Afridi plays for Pakistan, we will not participate in the match,” leading to the eventual cancellation of the high-voltage encounter.

    Read more: Pakistan to lock horns with England in WCL 2025 opener today

    While India and Pakistan have not been playing bilateral cricket against each other for more than a decade, the two sides do square off in multi-team events organised by the International Cricket Council and Asian Cricket Council.

    With the WCL being a private competition, however, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) neither controls the league nor its players.

    The decision has sparked reactions across the cricketing fraternity, with many noting how Afridi, even in retirement, continues to unsettle his former rivals.

  • London house fire claims lives of four Pakistani-origin family members

    London house fire claims lives of four Pakistani-origin family members

    LONDON: A devastating fire in the northwest London borough of Brent has claimed the lives of four members of a British family of Pakistani origin, according to UK media reports.

    Emergency services were called to Tillett Close in Stonebridge, Brent, at 1.22am on Saturday after the blaze broke out at a residential property.

    A 43-year-old woman and three children – a 15-year-old girl, an eight-year-old boy, and a four-year-old boy – were pronounced dead at the scene.

    British media also reported that a man has been arrested on suspicion of murder, as authorities treat the fire as a potential arson attack. While investigations continue, no further details about the arrested individual have been released.

    Two additional victims — a 70-year-old woman and a young girl — were rescued and transported to a nearby hospital in injured condition. Their medical status has not yet been disclosed.

    Read more: Film stars, celebrities lose homes, flee from Los Angeles wildfires

    The victims’ next of kin have been informed, and police are appealing for anyone with information to contact them.

    The affected family had reportedly moved to the United Kingdom from Pakistan nearly two decades ago. The tragedy has sent shockwaves through the local community, with authorities continuing to investigate the cause of the fire and any possible criminal motive.
  • Dramatic Downfall, Hassan Nawaz’s Business Empire Dissolves in the UK

    Dramatic Downfall, Hassan Nawaz’s Business Empire Dissolves in the UK

    LONDON: Hassan Nawaz, son of former Pakistani Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif, has seen the complete collapse of his business operations in the United Kingdom.

    Once the director of seven companies, Hassan Nawaz no longer holds a position in any, as all seven have been officially dissolved.

    The former businessman was declared a tax defaulter by UK authorities and faced a hefty financial penalty of £5.2 million. In a significant legal development, he was declared bankrupt in April 2024, following ongoing investigations and enforcement actions by HM Revenue and Customs.

    Among the dissolved entities is Flagship Investments Limited, one of Hassan Nawaz’s most high-profile ventures, which is scheduled to be officially struck off the register on May 20. Another notable company, Quint Paddington Limited, operational since 2007, will also cease to exist on the same date.

    Four of his companies were dissolved on December 3, 2024, while one was shut down as far back as December 2016. These closures mark the end of an era for the Sharif family’s business footprint in the UK.

    In another significant detail, Hassan Nawaz, the younger brother of Hussain Nawaz, is no longer listed as a director of any UK-based company.

    The dramatic downfall of Hassan Nawaz’s financial empire adds to the growing list of legal and financial troubles surrounding the Sharif family in the uk in recent years.

  • London police arrest man for attacking Pakistan High Commission

    London police arrest man for attacking Pakistan High Commission

    London police have arrested another man for his involvement in attack over Pakistan High Commission in London, ARY News reported on Sunday.

    According to reports, stones were hurled at the windows of the High Commission, causing significant damage to the glass panels. Additionally, saffron-coloured paint was thrown at the building during the incident.

    It is to be noted that just a few days earlier, four Indian nationals had been arrested near the Pakistan High Commission during a protest.

    Supporters of India’s ruling party, BJP, had also staged a protest outside the Pakistan High Commission.

    Amid the charged atmosphere, a person holding a cup of tea and a poster of India Air Force pilot Abhinandhan, stepped outside to greet Indian protesters in a moment that contrasted with the wider tension.

    On Tuesday, 26 men were killed at a tourist site in Pahalgam area of Indian Illegally Occuppied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK), shot dead in a meadow. India claimed with presenting any evidence that there were Pakistani elements linked to the attack, a claim Islamabad denies.

    Read more: Khawaja Asif warns India of Pakistan’s strong response to any aggression

    On Wednesday, the Indian Cabinet Committee on Security approved a series of actions including shutting down the Wagah-Attari land transit point, advising Indian nationals against travelling to Pakistan, and formally notifying Islamabad of the suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty.

    In response, Pakistan’s National Security Committee (NSC) on Thursday warned that any attempt by India to block water flow into Pakistan would be treated as an act of war. The statement followed a high-level NSC meeting, which also approved the closure of the Wagah border crossing.

  • Govt decides to construct airport in AJK on overseas Pakistanis’ demand

    Govt decides to construct airport in AJK on overseas Pakistanis’ demand

    The Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz-led federal government has decided to build an airport in Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) on the demand of overseas Pakistanis.

    Building an airport in AJK was a long-standing demand of overseas Pakistanis.

    In this context, a letter from British Members of Parliament of Kashmiri origin has also surfaced, supporting the demand.

    British MPs had written to the Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, urging the construction of the airport.

    In Islamabad, the Airports Authority has published an advertisement to hire a consultancy firm for the project.

    According to the Airports Authority, eligible consultants can participate in the tender process as per the prescribed procedure.

    Meanwhile, first annual overseas Pakistanis Convention will start in Islamabad today.

    It is aimed at recognizing the contributions of overseas Pakistanis to the national economy.

    The government has granted the status of state guests to overseas Pakistanis attending the convention.

    The Overseas Pakistanis Convention will provide a platform where overseas Pakistanis, government representatives, and national institutions will come together under one roof.

    To facilitate this, help desks of various government departments have been set up to provide information, guidance and services to overseas Pakistanis at a single location.

    In a video message, Minister for Overseas Pakistanis Chaudhry Salik Hussain has expressed the government’s determination to work for the welfare of overseas Pakistanis and address their problems.

    He said this is the first time an Overseas Pakistanis Convention is being organized, and opinions and suggestions of Pakistanis living abroad will be welcomed.

    Minister of State for Overseas Pakistanis, Awn Chaudhry, appreciated the contributions of overseas Pakistanis to Pakistan’s economy.

    He said the hearts of overseas Pakistanis beat for Pakistan.

  • Shah Zaman Revives Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan’s Legacy in Historic UK Tour with Father Rahat Fateh Ali Khan

    Shah Zaman Revives Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan’s Legacy in Historic UK Tour with Father Rahat Fateh Ali Khan

    LONDON: The legacy of the late Qawwali maestro Ustad Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan continues to echo across generations, as his 20-year-old grandson Shah Zaman Ali Khan left thousands mesmerized with his soul stirring performances during a series of sold-out concerts across the UK.

    Performing alongside his father, the globally renowned Sufi and Qawwali singer Ustad Rahat Fateh Ali Khan, Shah Zaman captivated audiences in Birmingham, London, and Manchester, evoking powerful memories of his legendary grandfather’s voice. The highlight of the

    “Legacy of the Khans 2025” tour was a record-breaking show at London’s OVO Arena Wembley, where nearly 12,000 fans gathered for an unforgettable musical evening.
    Returning to the UK stage after a two-year hiatus, Rahat Fateh Ali Khan delivered one of his most memorable performances yet, reaffirming his stature as the reigning king of Sufi music.

    The London show stood out not only for its sheer scale but for Shah Zaman’s highly anticipated debut at the iconic venue. Performing five solo Qawwalis, Shah Zaman drew standing ovations from the crowd, many of whom compared his vocal tone and style to that of Ustad Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan.

    The young singer also performed the OST of ARY Digital’s drama “Bismil”, which sent ripples of excitement through the audience, prompting cheers, applause, and emotional reactions.

    Speaking to ARY News, Shah Zaman said he was “very humbled and honoured” to receive the amazing response from the audience.

    Rahat also expressed his gratitude to the tour organiser Vijay Bhola, the man behind the successful execution of the UK leg of the tour. Right after the show in an exclusive interview with this correspondent, Rahat said: “Shah Zaman is just 20. The overwhelming response and recognition he’s receiving—I pray he stays humble and focused. I wish he becomes the Einstein of his field.”

    Vijay Bhola, founder of Rock On Music, praised Rahat’s artistry, saying, “He carries forward the musical legacy of Ustad Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan with immense grace. Tonight was a celebration of that legacy, and Rahat once again won the hearts of music lovers across the UK.”

    The tour also featured performances from singer Ammar Baig, son of celebrated Pakistani vocalist Waris Baig, in both London and Manchester. His presence added another layer of generational talent to the stage, which the audience warmly appreciated.
    Notable figures in the crowd, including businessmen Munir Hussain, Suleman Raza, and rising youth icons Aaryan Saeedi and Shayaan Saeedi, expressed their admiration for Shah Zaman’s potential. “His voice reminds us of Ustad Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan. We are confident Shah Zaman will become a big name in the world of Qawwali,” they said.

    With the UK tour now concluded, Ustad Rahat Fateh Ali Khan is set to perform next in Spain, continuing his journey of bringing Sufi and Qawwali music to global audiences.

  • Feroze Khan honoured with Star of Pakistan award in UK

    Feroze Khan honoured with Star of Pakistan award in UK

    Showbiz heartthrob Feroze Khan has been honoured with the Star of Pakistan appreciation award in the UK’s House of Lords.

    To Read Lifestyle Stories in Urdu – Click Here

    In recognition of his distinguished career, unforgettable performances and significant contributions to Pakistan’s entertainment industry, celebrated actor Feroze Khan was presented with the prestigious Star of Pakistan Award, by Lord Kuldip Singh Sahota and Baroness Pola Uddin, at the House of Lords, UK, on Thursday.

    The accolade acknowledges Khan’s memorable performances and lasting impact on film and television.

     

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    Khan’s wife Dr Zainab, who accompanied him to the House of Lords for this special moment, showered his praises on the ‘Habs’ actor and expressed that she is super ‘proud’ of her husband.

    “I am beyond proud of my incredible husband for receiving this prestigious award from Parliament,” she said. “Your dedication, passion, and talent continue to inspire not only me but so many others. This recognition is truly well-deserved, and I can’t wait to see what you achieve next.”

     

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    Earlier this week, Khan’s ‘Ishqiya’ co-star Hania Aamir was also bestowed with a Recognition Award at the House of Parliament, UK, recognizing her remarkable journey, stellar performances, and immense contribution to Pakistan’s entertainment industry.

    Also Read: Bushra Ansari honoured with Recognition Award in UK Parliament

  • Hania Aamir receives Award of Recognition at UK Parliament

    Hania Aamir receives Award of Recognition at UK Parliament

    Pakistan showbiz’s A-lister Hania Aamir has been honoured with the Award of Recognition in the UK Parliament.

    To Read Lifestyle Stories in Urdu- Click Here

    In recognition of her remarkable journey, stellar performances, and immense contribution to Pakistan’s entertainment industry, A-list star Hania Aamir was honoured with a Recognition Award, at an event, hosted by Afzal Khan MP, in the Jubilee Room of House of Parliament, UK, on Monday.

    The event was organized by Samara Events UK and witnessed a packed audience, including journalists, social media influencers, and prominent members of the British Pakistani community.

    Visibly overwhelmed Aamir expressed her gratitude for the honour and said, “It is an absolute honour to be here and it means a lot to me. I hope we continue to entertain people through our work and make Pakistan proud.”

    “We have a very strong community so I just hope that we continue to stand by and support each other, in whichever way we can,” added the ‘Kabhi Main Kabhi Tum’ star.

     

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    She also took an opportunity to thank other women of her fraternity who paved the way for the newer generation and vowed to do everything in her capacity to make it easier for others to come.

    Notably, Hania Aamir is one of the leading female stars of the country at the moment.

    On the work front, she recently won global recognition and acclaim for her role as Sharjeena, in the biggest serial of Pakistan, ‘Kabhi Main Kabhi Tum’, co-starring superstar Fahad Mustafa in his drama comeback.

    Aamir is reportedly all set to enter the Indian film industry, with a Diljit Dosanjh and Neeru Bajwa-starrer Punjabi movie titled ‘Sardaar Ji 3’.

    Also Read: Bushra Ansari honoured with Recognition Award in UK Parliament

  • Hassan Nawaz declared ‘tax defaulter’ in UK

    Hassan Nawaz declared ‘tax defaulter’ in UK

    LONDON: The United Kingdom (UK) government has declared Hassan Nawaz, son of PML-N President and former PM, Nawaz Sharif as a ‘tax defaulter’.

    The UK government has updated the list of defaulters on its official website.

    As per details, the UK government declared Hassan Nawaz ‘tax defaulter’ as he failed to pay £9.4 million in taxes between April 5, 2015, and April 6, 2016.

    The UK tax authority has imposed a £5.2 million penalty on the son of former prime minister, with details of the action shared on the government’s official website.

    Legal experts suggest that despite PML-N president’s son having declared bankrupt a few months ago, authorities may still recover the penalty, as tax fraud fines are not waived under UK law.

    Read more: Hussain, Hassan Nawaz acquitted in Avenfield, Flagship, Al-Azizia cases

    There has been no response from Hassan Nawaz’s legal representatives so far.

    Last year, an accountability court acquitted Nawaz Sharif’s sons Hassan and Hussain Nawaz in Avenfield, Flagship, and Al-Azizia NAB references.

    Islamabad accountability court’s judge Nasir Javed Rana announced the reserved verdict on petitions of ex-PM sons and acquitted them in three accountability references against them.

    Earlier, the court had granted bail to Hassan and Hussain who had surrendered before the accountability court.