Outrage as Another Nigerian is Killed in South African Police Raid, Abuja Demands Justice

The Nigerian Consulate General in Johannesburg has condemned the killing of a Nigerian citizen, Ibeh Chika Simon, during a South African Police Service (SAPS) operation in Bellville, Cape Town, demanding an immediate investigation and accountability for those responsible.
The Consulate said the July 23 operation also left another Nigerian, Egwabor Patrick Chuks, with severe gunshot injuries. He is currently receiving treatment.
In a strongly worded statement issued by the Consul-General, Ambassador (Mrs.) Ninikanwa Okey-Uche, the Nigerian mission described the circumstances surrounding Simon’s death as questionable and denounced what it called the “egregious police tactics” employed during the operation.
It warned that the incident reflected an alarming pattern of unresolved extrajudicial killings and misconduct involving foreign nationals in South Africa, adding that the development was particularly disturbing against the backdrop of rising afrophobic sentiment in the country.
The Consulate said the killing raised serious concerns about respect for the fundamental rights to life, dignity and due process guaranteed under South African law, insisting that no individual should be deprived of those protections.
It called on South African authorities to conduct an immediate, transparent and impartial investigation into the incident and ensure that anyone found culpable is brought to justice.
The Nigerian mission reiterated that while it consistently encourages Nigerians residing in South Africa to obey the country’s laws, no allegation of criminal conduct justifies execution-style enforcement or the use of excessive force.
“Suspects are entitled to due process in a court of law; no authority should be above it,” the statement said.
The Consulate extended its condolences to the family of the late Ibeh Chika Simon and wished Egwabor Patrick Chuks a speedy recovery.
It also appealed to Nigerians living in South Africa to remain calm, law-abiding, and vigilant while the Nigerian government continues to pursue justice through diplomatic and official channels.