Pakistani Gangs Are Reportedly Involved in Alleged Contract Killings in South Africa

According to the Senate Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs, organized Pakistani gangs are allegedly involved in contract killings in South Africa. These gangs target individuals over personal and business disputes, with some murders reportedly arranged from Pakistan. A recent incident saw four Pakistanis killed over a personal disagreement, with indications that the killings were part of a contract-killing plot.

The Pakistan High Commission in South Africa informed the committee that a significant Pakistani community, primarily from Malakwal and Mandi Bahauddin, resides in the country, while many involved in criminal activities have acquired South African citizenship. The High Commission emphasized that most Pakistanis in South Africa are law-abiding citizens, but warned that criminal elements are harming the community's reputation.

Officials also highlighted issues with immigration controls and law enforcement in South Africa, noting that police investigations often do not adhere to procedures familiar to Pakistani authorities and that corruption within the police force is widespread. The committee expressed concern over the performance of the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) and questioned why illegal migration continues despite regular inspections by the interior minister.

The briefing also addressed anti-immigrant protests in South Africa, which were not specifically targeted at Pakistanis and resulted in no deaths. The four Pakistanis killed in recent killings were determined to have died due to a personal dispute and not as a result of the protests. The High Commission clarified that consular access is provided to Pakistani nationals once their nationality is confirmed, and Pakistani missions can repatriate confirmed citizens at the government's expense.