Nigerian national Ibeh Simon has been killed during a South African Police Service (SAPS) operation in Bellville, Cape Town, bringing the number of Nigerians killed amid the latest wave of xenophobic violence to five. The incident, which occurred on July 23, was confirmed by the Nigerian Consulate in Johannesburg in a statement released on Saturday. Another Nigerian, Egwabor Patrick, was shot during the same operation and is currently receiving treatment for his injuries.
Consulate Condemns Extrajudicial Killing
Following Simon's death, the Nigerian mission issued a strong statement condemning extrajudicial police violence, Afrophobic sentiment, and violations of due process against foreign residents. "We are deeply appalled by reports of the egregious police tactics that led to his death, as well as the shooting of Chuks…who remains under treatment with severe injuries. This tragic event highlights an alarming pattern of unresolved extrajudicial killings/deaths and unacceptable misconduct against foreign nationals. Amid rising anti-African sentiment, such actions reveal a troubling disregard for the fundamental rights to life, dignity, and due process guaranteed by South African law to all human beings," the consulate stated. The consulate called for an immediate, transparent investigation and insisted that those responsible must face the law.
Fifth Nigerian Victim This Year
Simon is the fifth Nigerian reported dead since tensions involving foreign nationals escalated in South Africa this year. Among the earlier victims were Amaramiro Emmanuel, Ekpenyong Andrew, Emeka Iroegbu, and Musa Joe. Emmanuel and Andrew reportedly died in April following separate encounters involving South African security personnel. Andrew was arrested after an alleged altercation with members of the Tshwane Metro Police on April 19. Days later, his body was found at the Pretoria Central Mortuary. Emmanuel also reportedly died from injuries he sustained during an attack involving members of the South African National Defence Force. The Nigerian government responded by summoning South Africa's High Commissioner and demanding a full investigation into both deaths. However, more deaths followed. Emeka Iroegbu was allegedly tortured to death by officers of the Tshwane Metro Police in Pretoria, while Musa Joe was reportedly killed by suspected criminals in Witbank, Mpumalanga Province. So far, investigations into the previous cases remain ongoing, with no confirmed arrests announced.
Rising Anti-Foreigner Attacks
South Africa has witnessed renewed anti-foreigner tensions since April, with several videos showing attacks on African migrants circulating widely on social media. The situation became more tense after a controversial June 30 deadline, pushed by anti-immigration groups, calling on undocumented foreign nationals to leave the country. The developments have prompted countries including Nigeria, Ghana, Zimbabwe, Malawi, and Mozambique to evacuate or assist some of their citizens affected by the unrest. The Nigerian Consulate said it remains committed to seeking justice for the victims and urged South African authorities to protect the rights of all residents, regardless of nationality. Reiterating its position, the consulate said: "Amid rising Afrophobic sentiment, such actions reveal a troubling disregard for the fundamental rights to life, dignity, and due process guaranteed by South African law to all human beings."
