In a throbbing turn of events, Nigerians residing in South Africa have reported yet another tragic incident involving the fatal shooting of one of their own by an unidentified gunman.
This incident comes in the wake of growing concerns within the Nigerian community in South Africa, who have been voicing their distress over escalating attacks on Nigerians and their businesses in the country.
Speaking on the incident, National Secretary-General of Nigeria Union South Africa (NUSA), Mr. Somadina Okeke, issued a statement on Sunday, revealing the distressing details of this most recent attack.
The victim, Anene Esihi, hailed from Agulu in Anaocha Local Government Area of Anambra State.
This grim development follows NASU’s previous alarm, raised on September 22nd, concerning a surge in terror attacks on Nigerians by a criminal group operating in Sasolburn, Freestate Province.
According to the union, these attacks were not limited to the streets, the assailants also targeted Nigerians within their homes, subjecting them to robbery, humiliation, and physical assault.
Furthermore, NUSA has accused the local police in the province of being complicit in these serious violations of human rights, which have tragically resulted in the deaths of three Nigerians, saying: “Three persons were killed, and no arrests have been made.
“Survivors are also living with traumatic scars, with some too afraid to leave their homes for fear of being assaulted.”
He noted that Esihi’s incident occurred between 7.30p.m and 8.00p.m at her shop located at No. 8A St. George Street, Central Business District, Bloemfontein. She was attacked and shot multiple times by unidentified assailant. Although her landlord attempted to chase down the assailant, the individual managed to escape. During the pursuit, a cell phone belonging to the attacker was dropped and icked up by a bystander.
Law enforcement and emergency services were alerted to the scene. Tragically, upon their arrival, medical personnel declared Anene dead. The crime scene investigation team, along with forensic experts, conducted an examination, and subsequently, the victim’s body was transported to a government mortuary.
The cell phone recovered from the unknown assailant has been handed over to the Police Investigation Officer (PIO), as crucial evidence in the ongoing investigation.
Despite these harrowing incidents, NUSA has urged Nigerians residing in South Africa to continue being law-abiding citizens and to persevere with their legitimate businesses. The union has pledged to do everything within its power to seek justice for their fallen compatriot.
NUSA extended their heartfelt condolences to the grieving family and friends of Anene Esihi, as well as to other Nigerians living in South Africa, who continue to grapple with the growing concerns of violence against their community.
