Midrand, South Africa – The Nigeria Union South Africa (NUSA) has launched an investigation into the tragic death of a Nigerian citizen, Chukwunta Julius Friday, who was fatally attacked in Midrand, Johannesburg. The 37-year-old, born on March 13, 1987, succumbed to his injuries on December 10, 2024, after being assaulted in a parking dispute at his residential complex, Protea Estate.
According to reports, the incident unfolded on the evening of December 7, 2024. Julius and his girlfriend, Lumka, returned to their home to find their path blocked by a parked car. After politely requesting the driver to move, Julius sought assistance from the estate’s security personnel. While walking towards the security post, he was ambushed and struck on the head with bricks by the driver and several accomplices. Despite Lumka’s pleas for help, neither security personnel nor residents intervened.
Lumka later called her father for assistance, and Julius was taken to Tembisa Hospital, where he remained in critical condition. Three days later, he succumbed to his injuries, and his body was transferred to the hospital’s mortuary.
The Midrand Police Services have opened a murder investigation under case number 262/12/2024, with Sergeant Mateta leading the probe. Two suspects have been arrested, and further detentions are expected, according to Detective-Commander Capt Mainkis and Sgt Mateta. The suspects are due to appear in court on Friday, December 13.
NUSA President, Prince Barr. Smart Nwobi, and Deputy Secretary-General, Coker Bright, visited both the crime scene and the Midrand Police Station. The union is working closely with legal representatives and law enforcement to ensure justice is served. Preliminary findings have been presented to the Nigerian High Commission in Pretoria and the Consulate General in Johannesburg.
Ambassador Ajayi Temitope, Acting High Commissioner, has pledged his office’s support in pursuing the case and providing closure for the victim’s family.
This incident has reignited concerns over the safety of Nigerians in South Africa. According to NUSA, 127 Nigerians have lost their lives in the country over the past three years, with 13 reportedly killed by law enforcement. In 2019 alone, 10 Nigerians were killed in violent incidents.
NUSA has urged Nigerians in South Africa to remain cautious during the festive season.
