The Nigerian Citizens Association in South Africa has condemned the killing of a Nigerian, Mr. Julius Chukwunta, in Midrand, South Africa, by four South African men.
Chukwunta, 37, from Aninri Local Government Area of Enugu State, was attacked on December 7, 2024, near his residence in Midrand Protea Estate.
According to NICASA’s President-General, Dr. Frank Onyekwelu, Chukwunta was driving home when the four men blocked his vehicle.
“After trying to pass through, he went to the security office for help but was attacked by the men,” Onyekwelu explained.
He added that the attackers inflicted severe head injuries on Chukwunta, leaving him unconscious.
Chukwunta’s female companion, who was in the car, rushed to the security office for assistance but found him lying on the ground, bleeding heavily.
“Despite her pleas, neither the security personnel nor the residents helped to call the police or an ambulance,” Onyekwelu said.
After an hour, the woman called her father, who, along with family members, took Chukwunta to Tembisa General Hospital. He was placed on life support but died on December 10, 2024.
The case, reported by Chukwunta’s partner, was registered at the Midrand police station under file number 262/12/2024.
Police arrested the four suspects, aged 20, 24, 27, and 28, and charged them with murder.
On December 13, 2024, they were arraigned at the Alexandra Magistrate Court. Three of the suspects were granted bail at R10,000 each on December 18, while the fourth suspect has not yet applied for bail.
The case has been adjourned to February 3, 2025. Dr. Onyekwelu expressed outrage at the handling of the case and pledged that the Nigerian community would fight for justice for Chukwunta.
“We are deeply disappointed by these proceedings. The Nigerian community will not rest until justice is served and the value of Nigerian lives is respected in South Africa,” he said.
The Nigerian community in South Africa has called for greater protection for Nigerians living abroad and demanded a thorough investigation into the killing.
The incident has sparked outrage on social media, with many Nigerians condemning the attack and calling for stricter measures to ensure the safety of Nigerians in foreign countries.
