The Nigerian Citizens Association in South Africa (NICASA) has strongly condemned the alleged murder of 37-year-old Julius Chukwunta, a Nigerian native from Aninri Local Government Area, Enugu State, who succumbed to injuries following an attack by four South Africans.
Chukwunta was reportedly ambushed on December 7, 2024, while driving into the Midrand Protea Estate. NICASA President-General, Dr. Frank Onyekwelu, told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) that the victim was blocked by the suspects and attacked after attempting to bypass them.
“He sought refuge at the estate’s security office but was viciously assaulted, sustaining severe head injuries,” Onyekwelu recounted.
The attack unfolded in the presence of Chukwunta’s female companion, who ran to the security office for help. Despite her pleas, neither the security personnel nor residents assisted in calling emergency services. After an hour, Chukwunta’s partner contacted her family, who rushed him to Tembisa General Hospital. He was placed on life support but died on December 10, 2024.
The case was promptly reported to the Midrand police station, and the suspects—aged 20, 24, 27, and 28—were apprehended. They appeared in Alexandra Magistrate Court on December 13, 2024, charged with murder. During subsequent proceedings on December 18, three suspects were granted bail of R10,000 each, while the fourth suspect’s bail application is pending. The trial has been adjourned to February 3, 2025.
Dr. Onyekwelu expressed NICASA’s dissatisfaction with the bail decision, stressing that the Nigerian community would persist in demanding justice for Chukwunta and ensuring his family receives unwavering support.
“Nigerian lives must be valued, and we will not rest until justice is served,” he declared.
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