The investigation into the alleged rape of two foreign women in Lahore has taken a new turn, with police examining whether a cryptocurrency-related financial dispute may have been linked to the case. According to investigators, the women and the prime suspect, Raza Dar, were allegedly involved in a disagreement over cryptocurrency transactions worth about US$1.5 million (approximately Rs450 million). Authorities have stressed that these claims are still under investigation and no final conclusions have been reached.
Investigators also allege that the suspect lured the women to Pakistan under false pretenses and may have staged his own kidnapping to make the incident appear genuine. Police are examining whether the alleged abduction was part of a broader plan connected to the financial dispute. The allegations remain unproven, and the investigation is ongoing.
The two women have recorded statements before a magistrate under Section 164 of the Criminal Procedure Code, alleging that they were kidnapped, held for ransom, and sexually assaulted. Police said the case includes charges of kidnapping for ransom and gang rape. According to the FIR, Raza Dar is accused of demanding ransom but is not alleged to have personally committed the sexual assault. Authorities say the Investigation Wing is continuing to gather evidence before reaching any final findings.
