Azerbaijani Woman Assault Case Takes New Turn as Investigation Continues in Lahore

Lahore:The case involving an Azerbaijani woman, identified as Diana, who has alleged that she was subjected to sexual assault in Lahore has taken several new turns, with investigators examining her movements in Pakistan and evidence presented before the courts.

During a hearing at Lahore’s Cantonment Kacheri, accused Muskan was produced before Judicial Magistrate Azhar Mahmood under tight security. The prosecution requested physical remand, saying it was Muskan’s first physical remand and that her custody was necessary to advance the investigation.

Muskan’s lawyer opposed the request, arguing that police had no recovery to make from his client and that she should not be remanded in custody in the absence of charges related to murder or robbery. He maintained that Muskan’s relationship with Diana was limited to friendship.

During the hearing, the magistrate asked Muskan whether she wanted to undergo a medical examination. She replied that she did not want to have a medical examination. The court subsequently reserved its decision on the remand request.

Meanwhile, Diana’s statement recorded under Section 164 of the Code of Criminal Procedure before Judicial Magistrate Muhammad Sagheer has also emerged.

According to the statement, Diana told the court that she arrived in Islamabad from Istanbul on September 13 and later travelled to Lahore, where she met Nimra and Muskan.

Diana alleged that her friend Nimra received money from the accused for an event and that later, individuals identified as Mohsin, Ahmed and Ali Zain locked her in a separate room at an apartment. She alleged that she was forcibly given alcohol and sexually assaulted.

The woman further alleged that the suspects took her iPhone, Redmi mobile phone and a bag containing Rs200,000 in cash before pushing her out of a vehicle. She said local residents subsequently helped her contact police through emergency number 15.

Investigators said police have so far detained five people—two women and three men—in connection with the case registered at Defence C police station. Police are also questioning six close associates of the main suspects.

According to police sources, Diana’s medical examination reportedly provided evidence consistent with the allegation of sexual assault. Investigators have also obtained photographs showing her presence at a café in Johar Town.

Police officials said search operations were continuing to recover the two mobile phones and cash allegedly taken from the woman. A prosecutor has also sought the complete case record to ensure a transparent investigation into the high-profile case.

Separately, documents and videos concerning Diana’s presence and movements in Pakistan have surfaced, including footage of her visit to the Punjab Assembly and an alleged marriage certificate indicating a marriage in Jhelum. Investigators are examining these materials alongside the other evidence as the case proceeds.