Nigerian Killed by South African Police in Northern Cape.

By Caroline Ameh

In yet another distressing incident highlighting police violence against Nigerians in South Africa, Ebuka Muoka, a 43-year-old from Obosi, Anambra State, was killed by the South African Police in Danielskuil, Northern Cape, on Friday.

The Nigerian Union South Africa (NUSA) has condemned the killing, calling for justice and a thorough investigation into the incident.

The Nigerian Union South Africa (NUSA) disclosed the details of the incident in a statement issued by its National Publicity Secretary, Habib Miller, on Saturday.

According to the statement, Muoka’s wife, Joyce, recounted a harrowing scene where law enforcement officers stormed their residence, forcing her to evacuate to shield their young child from witnessing the violence.

Muoka was allegedly subjected to assault and coerced into producing drugs that were allegedly in his possession. Despite a thorough search yielding no evidence, Muoka was forcibly escorted to a waste dump, where officers claimed he had concealed illegal substances. Witnesses reported egregious misconduct, including coercive tactics and requests for pepper spray by the officers.

Miller highlighted the lack of proper crime scene preservation and the police’s refusal to issue a statement on the case, raising grave doubts about the integrity of the investigation.

He also mentioned similar incidents targeting Nigerians in the Northern Cape Province since March, involving unfounded accusations of drug dealing and police violence resulting in serious injuries and trauma.

Regrettably, Muoka’s case is not an isolated incident. Another Nigerian, Mr Chika Aniuno, was killed by the police in Springs, Johannesburg, on April 25, 2024. NUSA has called for an exhaustive, impartial inquiry into Muoka’s killing and broader systemic issues of police abuse in the Northern Cape.

The statement appealed for justice for the deceased and emphasized the need to safeguard the rights and safety of all individuals, regardless of nationality. NUSA extended heartfelt condolences to Muoka’s family and expressed unwavering solidarity with the Nigerian community in the Northern Cape Province.

Mayor Irene Williams of Kgatelopele Local Municipality visited the crime scene, expressing shock and offering condolences. Her call for calm and unity was commended by NUSA, urging the Nigerian community to uphold the rule of law and remain united in seeking justice and accountability.