Two foreign women were rescued in Lahore after they were allegedly kidnapped for ransom, Punjab Police said on Wednesday.
Police said the women, from the Netherlands and Venezuela, were recovered safely after an emergency complaint was received from the Netherlands. Two suspects allegedly involved in the kidnapping were arrested during the operation.
According to police officials, the action was launched on the direction of Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif after the father of one of the women contacted Pakistan’s emergency helpline from the Netherlands.
The two women had reportedly travelled to Pakistan to meet friends. Police said special teams used Safe City surveillance cameras and technical resources to trace the suspects and complete the rescue operation within two hours.
FIR includes ransom and sexual assault allegations
According to the FIR, the suspects allegedly demanded $1.5 million for the women’s release. The case also includes allegations of sexual assault, which police said are being investigated.
Police said FIR No. 1560/26 has been registered at Defence C Police Station in Lahore.
Further raids under way
Two suspects have been arrested, while raids are continuing to locate other alleged accomplices, police said.
Authorities said the women were undergoing medical examination and further legal proceedings would be carried out in light of the available evidence.
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