The South African government has described as a smear campaign the legal challenge being led on behalf of a Pakistani national deported last year under unusual circumstances.

In a statement released after Wednesday's Cabinet meeting it said: “The meeting noted the continuing campaign Zahir Omar, the legal representative of Pakistani national, Khalid Rashid to besmirch the name of our government and our country regarding Rashid's deportation from our country.”

Omar approached local courts in a bid to force the Department of Home Affairs to reveal where his client is, as he has reportedly disappeared.

Rashid was deported last year under allegedly mysterious circumstances, apparently involving an unmarked plane in the middle of the night.

The statement added that the deportation was legal.

“Government wishes to reiterate that it has exercised its constitutional and legal responsibility to deport an illegal foreigner from our country, in accordance with prescribed procedures.

“Because of allegations regarding Rashid's links with international terrorist organisations, the deportation was conducted in cooperation with Pakistani authorities; and these authorities have confirmed in writing that Rashid was received in that country in good health.

It also suggested that Omar's entreaties in the South African courts were misplaced.

“If indeed Omar is genuinely interested in assisting Rashid's family to establish his whereabouts, he should take this matter up in Pakistan.”

Meanwhile, the Cape Times has reported that Rashid is in the custody of Pakistani officials.

“Government is in no doubt that the overwhelming majority of South Africans, including the Muslim community, are committed to work(ing) together in pursuit of our common security as a nation, and to work with the international community in promoting peace and stability throughout the world,” added Cabinet.