A judicial magistrate in Lahore has extended the physical remand of four suspects involved in an alleged abduction and sexual assault case involving two foreign women by another five days.

The suspects, including a relative of a senior political figure, were produced before the magistrate at the Cantonment Courts after their initial five-day remand expired.

The prosecution requested the extension to conduct DNA and fingerprint tests and recover evidence such as a vehicle, laptop, cash, and weapons linked to the case.

The defense, represented by Advocate Salman Shahid, argued that the suspects had no connection to the alleged crimes, citing a cryptocurrency dispute and the jurisdiction of the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA).The lawyer also claimed the suspects faced a 'media trial' due to extensive media coverage, which could irreparably damage their reputations.The magistrate granted the extension until July 13.Earlier, police had arrested five suspects, with four sent for remand and three others later detained.The two foreign victims left Pakistan after being rescued.The case highlights ongoing legal and media scrutiny in high-profile criminal investigations.