Two Pakistani nationals were arrested in southern Italy on suspicion of murdering four migrant farm workers found dead inside a burned minivan near a petrol station in the Calabria region [1, 2]. Authorities discovered the charred vehicle at a petrol station close to the village of Amendolara on June 1 [2].
The victims, including three Afghans and one Pakistani, were all farm workers, according to officials [1]. Surveillance footage showed the suspects blocking the van doors from outside and throwing a liquid or object inside, igniting the fire [1, 2]. The Calabrian prosecutor, Alessandro D'Alessio, said both suspects were "seriously suspected of multiple and aggravated homicide" [2].
A fifth man from Afghanistan, who had been with the group, escaped by breaking a window and survived the attack [1]. Survivors reported a dispute involving transportation money and unpaid wages as a possible motive [1]. The two suspects were arrested the following day in the nearby town of Villapiana after investigation and questioning [2].
Calabria regional president Roberto Occhiuto described the killings as "inhuman" and said the attack "shakes faith in humanity" [1]. The CGIL union called for urgent action to combat the exploitation and abuses of migrant workers in rural areas [1].
The arrests mark a major development after the killing of the four migrant workers, with legal proceedings expected to proceed soon [2]. Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the attack.
