A Nigerian businessman popularly known as Big Joe has been shot dead by yet-to-be-identified gunmen outside his business premises in Witbank, Emalahleni, Mpumalanga Province, South Africa.
The incident, which reportedly occurred on Sunday, has sparked grief within the Nigerian community in South Africa, with calls for a thorough investigation and the prosecution of those behind the killing.
According to preliminary accounts, the assailants ambushed the businessman outside his shop and opened fire on him several times before fleeing the scene.
Residents and traders in the area reportedly rushed to the location after hearing gunshots, but the victim had already sustained fatal injuries. Emergency responders later arrived and confirmed him dead.
As of the time of filing this report, the South African Police Service had yet to issue an official statement confirming the victim’s identity or the circumstances surrounding the attack.
Police have, however, commenced investigations to determine the motive for the killing and identify those responsible. Authorities also appealed to members of the public with useful information to assist the investigation.
The killing has sent shockwaves through the Nigerian community, where the deceased was described by friends and associates as a peaceful and hardworking businessman.
Community leaders condemned the attack and urged both Nigerian and South African authorities to ensure that the perpetrators are arrested and prosecuted without delay.
They also called for improved security around commercial areas where many foreign nationals operate.
The latest incident has renewed concerns over the safety of immigrants in South Africa, where sporadic attacks involving foreign nationals have been recorded over the years.
Although South African authorities have repeatedly maintained that criminal attacks are not always linked to xenophobia, many immigrants continue to express fears over their safety, particularly amid recent anti-immigration protests in parts of the country.
Investigators are expected to examine all possible motives behind the attack, including armed robbery, targeted assassination and hate-related violence.
The killing has also revived concerns over the security of Nigerians living and doing business in South Africa, with community leaders calling for stronger collaboration between law enforcement agencies and diaspora organisations to curb violent crimes.
No arrest had been announced as of press time, while investigations into the incident were ongoing.
