The Consulate General of Nigeria in Johannesburg has called for an immediate investigation into the death of a Nigerian citizen, Ibeh Chika Simon, during a South African police operation, describing the incident as an alleged “execution-style” killing.
In a statement issued by the Consul General, Ambassador Ninikanwa Okey-Uche, the mission said Simon died under what it described as questionable circumstances during a South African Police Service (SAPS) operation in Bellville, Cape Town, on July 23, 2026.
The Consulate also disclosed that another Nigerian, Egwabor Patrick Chuks, suffered serious gunshot injuries during the operation and is currently receiving medical treatment.
Expressing concern over the incident, the Nigerian mission alleged that the operation involved excessive force and said it reflected what it described as a disturbing pattern of unresolved extrajudicial killings and misconduct involving foreign nationals in South Africa.
The Consulate further linked the incident to growing Afrophobic sentiment, arguing that such actions undermine the rights to life, dignity and due process guaranteed under South African law.
It urged South African authorities to conduct a transparent and impartial investigation and ensure that anyone found responsible is held accountable.
While reiterating its call for Nigerians living in South Africa to obey the country’s laws, the Consulate maintained that no alleged criminal offence could justify the use of unlawful or excessive force.
The mission also extended condolences to Simon’s family, wished the injured Chuks a speedy recovery, and urged members of the Nigerian community in South Africa to remain calm, law-abiding and vigilant while diplomatic efforts continue.
The Nigerian Union South Africa (NUSA) also condemned the incident and backed calls for justice.
In a statement signed by its National Publicity Secretary, Akindele Olunloyo, the union expressed support for the investigation being conducted by South Africa’s Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID). It urged investigators to examine reports beyond the initial police account that Simon had collapsed during the operation.
According to NUSA, preliminary post-mortem findings reportedly showed bruises and abrasions on Simon’s chest and back, which it said warranted a thorough and independent investigation.
The union added that even if police allegations that drugs and an unlicensed firearm were recovered at the scene were accurate, such claims could not justify brutality, torture or unlawful use of force.
NUSA further alleged that the incident forms part of a wider pattern of violence and fatal misconduct against African foreign nationals by law enforcement officers in South Africa.
The organisation appealed to Nigerians in South Africa to remain peaceful and law-abiding while legal and diplomatic channels are pursued to seek justice for the deceased and accountability over the reported injuries sustained during the operation.
Headline
Nigerian Consulate Demands Justice Over Citizen’s Death During South African Police Operation
