A tragic incident has claimed the life of Julius Chukwunta, a 37-year-old Nigerian national, following a brutal assault by four South African men.
The attack took place on December 7, 2024, as Chukwunta was heading home to his residence in Midrand’s Protea Estate.
Frank Onyekwelu, the president-general of the Nigerian Citizens Association in South Africa (NICASA), recounted the events surrounding the assault in an interview with NAN on Saturday.
According to Onyekwelu, Chukwunta, originally from Aninri LGA in Enugu State, was suddenly blocked by the four attackers as he neared his home.
Despite his efforts to drive past, Chukwunta faced resistance, and in a desperate bid for help, he sought refuge at a nearby security office. Unfortunately, his plea went unanswered.
It was then that the assailants attacked him, inflicting severe head injuries that ultimately led to his death.
Onyekwelu described the brutal nature of the attack and expressed deep sorrow over the senseless violence that claimed the life of one of their own.
“His female companion, who was sitting in the car, rushed to the security office and discovered him bleeding on the ground.
“In spite of attempts to call for help, the security office and residents did not assist in calling the police or an ambulance.
“After an hour, Chukwunta’s partner contacted her father, who, along with other family members, took him to Tembisa General Hospital.
“Chukwunta was placed on life support but later succumbed to his injuries and died at the Tembisa General Hospital on December 10, 2024.”
Onyekwelu said the suspects were between ages 20 and 28.
Mavela Masondo, South Africa police spokesperson, said after the incident, Midrand police followed leads to trace and subsequently arrest the suspects.
Masondo said the suspects would appear in court to face a murder charge.
