The Nigerian Citizens Association in South Africa (NICASA) has condemned the brutal murder of 37-year-old Julius Chukwunta by four South African men.
Chukwunta, from Aninri Local Government Area in Enugu State, was attacked on 7 December 2024, near his home in Midrand Protea Estate.
Dr Frank Onyekwelu, NICASA President-General, explained that Chukwunta’s vehicle was blocked as he approached his residence. In an attempt to escape, he headed for the estate’s security office. There, the attackers assaulted him, inflicting severe head injuries.
His female companion, a witness to the attack, alerted the security office but received no aid. “Neither the security personnel nor residents intervened or called for help,” Onyekwelu stated. “After an agonising hour, Chukwunta’s partner reached out to her father, who, along with family members, rushed him to Tembisa General Hospital.”
Despite being placed on life support, Chukwunta succumbed to his injuries on 10 December 2024.
Chukwunta’s partner reported the case at the Midrand Police Station, where it was logged under file number 262/12/2024. On 13 December 2024, the four suspects, aged 20, 24, 27, and 28, were arrested and charged with murder at Alexandra Magistrate Court.
Court proceedings on 18 December 2024 saw three of the suspects granted bail of R10,000 each. The fourth suspect did not apply for bail. The case was adjourned until 3 February 2025.
Expressing his dismay at the court’s rulings, Onyekwelu reiterated NICASA’s resolve to seek 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,” he asserted.
The association pledged ongoing support for Chukwunta’s family while calling for the authorities to ensure the perpetrators face the full weight of the law.
