The Nigerian Citizens Association in South Africa (NICASA) has strongly condemned the alleged murder of a 37-year-old Nigerian, Mr Julius Chukwunta, by four South African nationals.
Chukwunta, an indigene of Aninri Local Government Area in Enugu State, was reportedly attacked on December 7, 2024, near his residence in Midrand Protea Estate.
According to NICASA President-General, Dr Frank Onyekwelu, the incident unfolded when Chukwunta’s vehicle was blocked by four men as he approached his home.
Efforts to evade the group led him to the estate’s security office, where the attackers allegedly assaulted him, inflicting severe head injuries.
His female companion, who witnessed the attack, sought help from the security office but received no assistance.
“Neither the security personnel nor residents intervened or contacted emergency services,” Onyekwelu stated. “After an agonising hour, Chukwunta’s partner reached out to her father, who, along with family members, transported him to Tembisa General Hospital.”
Despite being placed on life support, Chukwunta succumbed to his injuries on December 10, 2024.
The case, reported by Chukwunta’s partner, was registered at Midrand Police Station under file number 262/12/2024. On December 13, 2024, the four suspects, aged 20, 24, 27, and 28, were arrested and charged with murder at the Alexandra Magistrate Court.
Court proceedings on December 18, 2024, resulted in three of the suspects being granted bail at R10,000 each, while the fourth suspect had not applied for bail. The case was adjourned to February 3, 2025.
Expressing dismay at the court’s decision, Onyekwelu reaffirmed NICASA’s commitment to securing justice for Chukwunta.
“The Nigerian community in South Africa is deeply aggrieved by this incident and the lack of urgency shown by authorities. We will not rest until justice is served and the dignity of Nigerian lives is upheld,” Onyekwelu said.
The association has pledged continued support for Chukwunta’s family while urging authorities to ensure the perpetrators face the full weight of the law.
