A Pakistani businessman has reportedly been kidnapped by armed men in Pretoria, South Africa, raising fresh concerns over the safety of the Pakistani community in the country.
According to reports, Khurram Shehzad was abducted in the Hercules area of Pretoria on the evening of July 4. Pretoria police have registered a case under Case No. 41/07/2026 and launched an investigation into the incident.
Police Launch Investigation
South African police have begun investigating the reported kidnapping. However, officials have not yet disclosed further details regarding the incident or the progress of the investigation.
Growing Security Concerns
The latest case has once again highlighted security concerns among Pakistani business owners in South Africa. Community members say Pakistani traders have repeatedly been targeted in kidnapping-for-ransom incidents over the past several years.
They claim that, in some previous cases, victims were allegedly killed despite ransom payments being made, leaving many Pakistani families and entrepreneurs concerned about their safety.
Allegations Yet to Be Confirmed
Some community sources have alleged that, in past kidnapping cases, individuals known to the victims may have shared information with criminal groups, allegedly receiving a portion of the ransom in return.
However, authorities have not confirmed these allegations, and there is no official indication that such claims are connected to the reported kidnapping of Khurram Shehzad.
Community Calls for Diplomatic Action
Members of the Pakistani business community have urged the Government of Pakistan and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to engage with South African authorities to address the growing threat of kidnappings targeting Pakistani nationals.
They have called for stronger diplomatic coordination and improved security measures, arguing that Pakistani entrepreneurs in South Africa make a significant contribution to Pakistan’s economy through foreign remittances and deserve greater protection.
