LAHORE: The investigation into the alleged kidnapping, rape, and ransom of two foreign women in Lahore has taken a new direction. Investigators are now examining a possible cryptocurrency dispute linked to the case.
According to officials familiar with the investigation, the two foreign nationals and the prime suspect, Raza Dar, were reportedly involved in a financial disagreement over cryptocurrency. Investigators claim the suspect was expecting to receive about $1.5 million, or nearly Rs450 million, from the women. Authorities are reviewing whether the financial dispute played a role in the alleged crimes.
Police are also investigating allegations that Raza Dar lured the women to Pakistan under false pretences. Investigators further suspect that he staged his own kidnapping to make the alleged abduction appear genuine. Officials emphasized that these claims remain under investigation and that no final conclusions have been reached.
The two women later recorded their statements before a magistrate under Section 164 of the Criminal Procedure Code. They told the court they had travelled to Pakistan to meet friends but were allegedly kidnapped, held for ransom, and sexually assaulted.
The FIR includes charges of kidnapping for ransom and gang rape. According to the complaint, Raza Dar is accused of demanding ransom, while the alleged sexual assault was attributed to other suspects. Police have transferred the case to the Investigation Wing and expanded the scope of the inquiry.
