By Our Correspondent
LAHORE – Police have arrested a fifth suspect in the alleged abduction, sexual assault and extortion case involving two foreign women in Lahore’s Defence C area, while three additional individuals have been detained for questioning as the investigation expands.
Investigators said the latest arrest was made during ongoing raids aimed at identifying everyone allegedly connected to the case. Police officials added that the inquiry remains active and further arrests cannot be ruled out as new evidence emerges.
According to investigators, a preliminary medical examination has found evidence consistent with sexual assault involving one of the complainants, a Venezuelan national. Officials emphasized that the investigation is still underway and that final conclusions will depend on forensic and DNA examination reports.
Police confirmed that biological samples collected from both complainants and the arrested suspects have been sent to forensic laboratories for DNA analysis. Authorities have also seized mobile phones belonging to the suspects and complainants for digital examination to establish communication records and verify the sequence of events.
Investigators said the forensic findings will play a central role in determining the direction of the case and any additional charges that may be filed. Officials stressed that all legal proceedings will be based on available evidence collected during the investigation.
According to investigative sources, authorities are also examining financial transactions linked to cryptocurrency investments allegedly involving the suspects and the complainants. Investigators claim the investments were valued between $400,000 and $500,000, although the exact ownership and purpose of the funds remain under review.
Police are also investigating allegations that approximately $19,000 was transferred from one complainant’s digital cryptocurrency wallet. Financial experts and cybercrime investigators have reportedly been consulted to verify digital transaction records and trace the movement of funds.
Meanwhile, one of the complainants, identified as Estrid Robinson, a Venezuelan national, has recorded her statement before a magistrate under Section 164 of the Code of Criminal Procedure. According to investigators, her testimony supports the allegations made by the second complainant regarding the alleged abduction, physical assault, threats and sexual assault.
The second complainant, Stephanie Adriana, a Dutch national, stated in the First Information Report (FIR) that she first met the prime suspect, Ahmad Reza Dar, in Singapore during October 2025. She alleged that he later invited both women to Pakistan and arranged the necessary travel documentation and visas.
According to the FIR, the two women arrived in Pakistan on June 29 and were allegedly abducted after their arrival in Lahore. Police later recovered both women from the Defence area after receiving information from the Dutch complainant’s father, who contacted authorities from the Netherlands.
Investigators continue to examine witness statements, digital communications, surveillance footage and financial records as part of the inquiry. Police officials say all available evidence is being carefully reviewed to establish the facts surrounding the allegations.
Authorities have reiterated that the investigation is being conducted impartially and in accordance with the law. Officials emphasized that no final conclusions regarding criminal responsibility will be reached until forensic evidence has been examined and all investigative procedures are completed.
Legal experts note that statements recorded under Section 164 carry evidentiary value during criminal proceedings, while DNA analysis often provides important scientific evidence in cases involving allegations of sexual assault.
Police have also urged the public to avoid speculation while the investigation remains ongoing. Officials warned against circulating unverified claims on social media that could interfere with legal proceedings or influence public perception before the completion of the investigation.
The accused are entitled to the presumption of innocence unless proven guilty in a court of law. Authorities say the investigation will continue on merit, with prosecutors relying on forensic reports, witness testimony and digital evidence before presenting the case to the court for further proceedings.
