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The Nigerian Community in South Africa (NICOSA) expresses profound outrage and deep sorrow over the tragic killing of 37-year-old Nigerian national Osinakachukwu Marcus Onu, who was fatally shot by four South African traffic police officers during a routine traffic operation on the N12 highway in Klerksdorp, North West Province.
This incident, which occurred in the early hours of December 17, 2025, adds to the alarming pattern of violence against Nigerians in South Africa, raising serious concerns about xenophobia, police brutality, and the safety of foreign nationals in the country.
According to reports, Mr. Onu, who was legally residing in South Africa, was pursued by the officers during a traffic stop around 3:00 a.m. His vehicle was found stalled in the middle of the road on the opposite side of the N12, where he was discovered deceased from gunshot wounds. The officers allegedly fled the scene, prompting a swift response from local authorities who alerted detectives.
Preliminary investigations led to the arrest of the four suspects Inspectors Rudolph Foromo (29), Smanga Dladla (31), Colani Senzo Dlamini (34), and Vusumuzi Justice Simelane (36), on charges of murder and defeating the ends of justice. Their official firearms were seized for forensic ballistic analysis.
The accused appeared in the Klerksdorp Magistrate’s Court on December 18, 2025, where they were denied bail and remanded in custody. Their next court appearance is scheduled for December 19, 2025. North West provincial police spokesperson Colonel Adéle Myburgh confirmed the arrests, while Acting Provincial Commissioner Major General Ryno Naidoo commended the Klerksdorp detectives for their prompt action.
"NICOSA stands in solidarity with the family of Osinakachukwu Onu during this devastating time," said Dr. Emeka Okoli, President of NICOSA. "This senseless act of violence is not an isolated event but part of a disturbing trend of targeted attacks on Nigerians in South Africa. We demand a thorough, transparent investigation to ensure justice is served and call on South African authorities to address the root causes of xenophobia and police misconduct that endanger our community."
NICOSA urges the Nigerian government, through its High Commission in Pretoria, to provide immediate support to Mr. Onu's family and to engage with South African officials to prevent future occurrences. We also appeal to international human rights organizations to monitor the case closely and advocate for the protection of migrant rights.
The Nigerian Community in South Africa (NICOSA) is a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting and advocating for the welfare of Nigerians living in South Africa. Founded in 2005, NICOSA promotes cultural exchange, economic empowerment, and community integration while addressing issues of discrimination and safety.