DNA matches three suspects in Lahore foreign women sexual assault case
The latest development in the Lahore foreign women sexual assault case came after police sent DNA samples of eight suspects for forensic testing.
According to investigation sources, three samples have now matched evidence collected during the investigation, while analysis of the remaining five samples is still underway.
Police believe the forensic findings could strengthen the ongoing Lahore foreign women sexual assault case, which has attracted nationwide attention.
Three suspects reportedly linked through DNA
Investigation sources said the DNA of three suspects matched the forensic evidence gathered by investigators.
According to the sources, the prime suspect, identified as Nawaz, is among those whose DNA reportedly matched.
Investigators alleged that he was the first person to assault one of the foreign women before other suspects allegedly became involved.
Police sources also named Sajid and Sikandar as the other two suspects whose DNA reportedly matched.
Authorities said the remaining forensic reports are expected soon as the Lahore foreign women sexual assault case investigation continues.
Also Read: Foreign woman reveals shocking claims in Lahore kidnapping and assault case
Investigation continues
Police earlier collected DNA samples from eight suspects as part of the investigation. Officials are now waiting for the remaining laboratory reports before deciding on the next legal steps.
Investigators said forensic evidence will play an important role in determining each suspect’s involvement in the Lahore foreign women sexual assault case.
How the case unfolded
According to police, the two foreign women, one from Venezuela and the other from the Netherlands, arrived in Lahore on June 29.
Police said the women were allegedly kidnapped shortly after their arrival. Investigators traced the suspects using Safe City cameras, mobile phone records and vehicle tracking data.
Officials said the first ransom-related information was received on July 1 after a man identified as Carlos contacted authorities.
Police later traced the suspects through phone records and location data before making arrests on July 2.
Also Read: Lahore foreign women case: DIG says no special treatment for ‘minister-linked suspect’
According to police, the women were being taken toward the airport when a vehicle crashed near Bhatta Chowk. The women escaped from the vehicle and sought shelter inside a nearby filter house, where Punjab Police later rescued them.
DIG Operations Kamran rejected claims that the women had reached safety on their own, saying both women confirmed they were rescued by Punjab Police.
