Pakistan Deputy PM's Relative Arrested in Lahore Assault Case: Crypto Angle Adds New Twist

A major controversy has erupted in Pakistan after four men, including a relative of Pakistan's Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, Ishaq Dar, were arrested in connection with the alleged kidnapping and gang rape of two foreign women in Lahore. The case has drawn international attention because of the alleged involvement of a close relative of one of Pakistan's most senior political leaders and the emergence of a possible cryptocurrency-related motive.

According to Lahore Police, the incident took place on 29 June, when two women—one from the Netherlands and the other from Venezuela—arrived in Pakistan on business visas reportedly arranged by the main accused, Muhammad Raza Dar. Investigators say the women were allegedly abducted, taken to a house, sexually assaulted, and held against their will. Police also allege that the accused demanded $100,000 for their release.

Authorities have arrested Muhammad Raza Dar, Hassan Raza, Sikandar Khan, and Sajid Ali, while a fifth suspect remains absconding. A Lahore court has remanded the four accused to five days of police custody for further investigation. During court proceedings, one of the survivors reportedly identified Muhammad Raza Dar as the principal accused.

The investigation has now expanded to examine a possible cryptocurrency dispute. Police say the victims and Muhammad Raza Dar allegedly knew each other through a crypto venture in Singapore, and investigators are probing whether a financial dispute over digital assets played a role in the crime. However, authorities have not yet reached any final conclusions on this aspect.

The case has also sparked political controversy. Pakistani Senator Faisal Vawda has publicly called for Ishaq Dar's resignation, arguing that the seriousness of the allegations involving his relative has damaged Pakistan's international image. Ishaq Dar himself has not been accused of any crime, and the allegations concern his relative, not the Deputy Prime Minister personally.

As investigations continue, the case has intensified debate over women's safety, accountability, and political influence in Pakistan. The final outcome will depend on the ongoing police investigation and subsequent court proceedings.