Azerbaijani woman clears Lahore rape suspect

An Azerbaijani woman who had allegedly been sexually assaulted in Lahore has declared suspect Ahmad Tanveer innocent, saying he was not

An Azerbaijani woman who had allegedly been sexually assaulted in Lahore has declared suspect Ahmad Tanveer innocent, saying he was not involved in the alleged assault and did not take her mobile phone.

In a new video statement, the woman, identified as Diana, said Tanveer had neither sexually assaulted her nor taken her phone. She also claimed that her earlier statement had been made under pressure.

Diana reportedly submitted documents through the Azerbaijani embassy to declare Tanveer innocent. She also announced that she had forgiven the two other suspects, identified as Mohsin and Uzair, and did not want to pursue the matter further.

Her latest statement marks a significant development in the case, which was registered against Tanveer at the Defence C police station in Lahore over allegations of sexually assaulting the Azerbaijani woman.

Meanwhile, a court extended Tanveer’s interim pre-arrest bail until October 27 in connection with the case.

Tensions reportedly escalated at the court premises, where a heated exchange and physical scuffle took place between police personnel and the suspect’s companions. Police subsequently took Tanveer and his associates to a police station.

Tanveer’s lawyer maintained that his client had been taken into custody despite having secured bail.

The case had been registered following allegations of sexual assault against Diana. However, in her latest statement, the woman denied that Tanveer was responsible for the alleged offence and said she did not wish to pursue the matter further.

The latest developments come as the legal proceedings continue, with Tanveer’s interim bail extended until October 27. The woman’s withdrawal of her allegations against the suspect may have implications for the investigation, although the legal consequences will depend on the relevant authorities and the court’s proceedings.