A high-profile criminal case in Pakistan has triggered a major political controversy after police arrested a close relative of Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar in connection with the alleged abduction and gang rape of two foreign women in Lahore. The case has intensified scrutiny of the government, with opposition leaders demanding Ishaq Dar’s resignation while the investigation continues.

According to Pakistani police, four suspects have been taken into custody, while another accused remains absconding. The prime suspect, identified as Muhammad Raza Dar, has been described by police sources as Ishaq Dar’s grandson. A Lahore court has remanded the arrested suspects to police custody for further investigation.

The alleged victims are foreign nationals from the Netherlands and Venezuela. Investigators said the women had reportedly travelled to Pakistan after being invited by the prime suspect, whom they had allegedly met during a cryptocurrency-related business venture in Singapore. Authorities are also examining whether the case has links to financial disputes connected to cryptocurrency investments.

Police documents indicate that shortly after arriving in Lahore on June 29, the women were allegedly abducted, confined at a private location and sexually assaulted. Investigators further allege that ransom money was demanded from the victims before they were rescued following information received from family members and diplomatic channels. The investigation remains ongoing, and authorities have said all aspects of the case are being examined.

The case has quickly moved beyond a criminal investigation into a political flashpoint. Pakistani Senator Faisal Vawda has publicly called for Ishaq Dar to step down from his posts as Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, arguing that the seriousness of the allegations involving a close family member has damaged Pakistan’s international reputation. He also accused authorities of attempting to shield influential individuals, allegations that have not been officially substantiated.

Vawda further questioned why senior political leaders had remained largely silent on the issue and urged a transparent investigation. His remarks have intensified debate across Pakistan's political landscape, particularly because the accused is allegedly related to one of the country's most senior government leaders.

Pakistani investigators have not announced any conclusions regarding the allegations, and no court has determined the guilt of the accused. Under Pakistan's legal system, all suspects remain presumed innocent until proven guilty in court.

The case has also reignited concerns over the safety of foreign nationals visiting Pakistan and the handling of high-profile criminal investigations involving politically connected individuals. Human rights advocates and legal observers are closely watching the investigation, which is expected to face intense public and media scrutiny in the coming days.

Meanwhile, reports indicate that the two foreign women may have already left Pakistan after recording their statements before investigators. Officials have not released additional details regarding their current location or future participation in legal proceedings.

With the investigation continuing and political pressure mounting, the Lahore case has become one of Pakistan's most closely watched developments, raising questions about accountability, judicial transparency and the government's response to allegations involving members of politically influential families.