A relative of Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar was among four men arrested this week in connection with the alleged gang rape and abduction of two foreign women, according to police and court officials.
The victims, identified as Dutch and Venezuelan nationals, were rescued by law enforcement after authorities received an emergency alert from Spain. The father of one of the women had contacted officials there after losing contact with his daughter, prompting an international response.
Police arrested Ahmad Raza Dar, Sikandar Aziz Khan, Hassan Raza, and Sajid Ali on July 2. The suspects were produced before a judicial magistrate, who remanded them into five days of physical custody for further investigation, as reported by Arab News.
Ahmad Raza Dar has been identified by investigators as a relative of Ishaq Dar. Officials stressed that the case is being pursued under criminal law and that the investigation is focused on the alleged actions of the suspects rather than their political connections.
Deputy District Public Prosecutor Nazar Iqbal said the case involves multiple serious charges. He stated that the allegations include gang rape, unlawful confinement, and extortion, adding that more than one suspect is accused of sexually assaulting the victims during their captivity. He also confirmed that the women were allegedly held at a location where ransom demands were made.
According to investigators, the two women travelled to Pakistan after accepting an invitation from Ahmad Raza Dar, whom they had met in Singapore in October 2025. Police allege that on June 29, the women were abducted by a group of men who later demanded a ransom of $1.5 million for their release.
During the alleged confinement, the victims were repeatedly assaulted, police said. Investigators were able to trace the suspects using municipal surveillance camera footage, which led them to a residence in Lahore’s upscale Defence area. Authorities said the women were located and rescued within two hours of the emergency alert being received.
Police confirmed that a fifth suspect is still at large and that raids are ongoing to make further arrests. Officials said forensic evidence is being collected and statements are being recorded as part of the investigation.
Authorities have emphasized that the case remains under inquiry and that all allegations will be tested in court. Legal experts note that the involvement of foreign nationals and the international distress call have added urgency and scrutiny to the proceedings, increasing pressure on investigators to ensure transparency and due process.
