Italian police have arrested two Pakistani nationals in connection with the killing of four Pakistani farm workers, whose bodies were discovered inside a burnt-out minivan in southern Italy, according to Corriere della Sera.
The incident took place near a petrol station in the village of Amendolara, located in the Calabria region, an area known for extensive agricultural activity and a large presence of migrant labourers working in farming sectors.
Firefighters initially responded to reports of a vehicle fire and later recovered the bodies of four individuals from inside the completely destroyed minivan after extinguishing the flames.
I quattro braccianti pakistani uccisi e dati alle fiamme in Calabria: la pista del regolamento di conti https://t.co/SV10jvfW8S
— Corriere della Sera (@Corriere) June 2, 2026
Preliminary findings, cited by Italian media, suggest the fire may have been deliberately set. Surveillance footage from the petrol station reportedly shows two individuals approaching the vehicle, obstructing its doors, and pouring a liquid substance inside before the fire erupted.
The footage further indicates that the suspects fled immediately after the blaze started, while the vehicle was rapidly engulfed in flames, leaving those inside with no chance of escape.
Local police chief Antonio Borelli described the incident as a clear case of homicide, stating that investigators are now focused on determining the exact motive and circumstances behind the killings.
“This is definitely murder, we now need to establish the full details,” he was quoted as saying.
The report also highlights rising tensions in the region involving migrant workers, particularly linked to disputes over agricultural employment, residency documentation, and accommodation conditions.
According to Corriere della Sera, the area has witnessed multiple incidents of arson targeting vehicles carrying Pakistani migrants in recent months, raising concerns about escalating violence and security risks faced by foreign workers.
Authorities continue their investigation as the case develops, with the latest arrests marking a significant step forward in uncovering the circumstances behind the tragic deaths.
