Two Nigerian men, known simply as Austin and Ayo, were killed in a targeted shooting carried out by unidentified assailants in Durban, South Africa.
The tragic incident took place on the evening of Thursday, July 9, when three masked individuals stormed a business premises operated by Austin and opened fire. Witnesses say the attackers, who were armed, did not speak a word before shooting both men.
Austin, a car dealer who also sold tyres, was reportedly at his shop when Ayo, a friend, stopped by. While the two were conversing, the gunmen entered and opened fire, killing them instantly.
A friend of the deceased, who gave his name as Fidelis, spoke with PUNCH Metro and recounted the chilling moment.
“They were in the shop having a conversation. The next thing, three masked men rushed in with guns. Before anyone could react, they shot both of them,” he said.
Customers present at the shop fled in panic as the shooting began. People nearby said they heard gunshots and later saw the attackers fleeing the scene. The victims were rushed to the hospital but were confirmed dead on arrival.
A separate source based in Nigeria shared CCTV footage showing the exact moment of the attack. In the video, Austin is seen being shot at close range, while Ayo is hit as he tried to run.
Although there are unverified claims that the shooting may have stemmed from a business-related issue, the exact motive remains unclear. As of now, local authorities have not made any arrests, though investigations are reportedly underway.
Efforts to reach Abdulrahman Balogun, spokesperson for the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), were unsuccessful. Calls to his line went unanswered, and a message sent to him had not been acknowledged at the time this report was filed.
This latest incident adds to a series of attacks involving Nigerians in South Africa. In April, two other Nigerians — Taiwo Raji and Yemi Akinwunmi — were shot and killed outside their business locations in Pretoria. The news, reported in May, triggered outrage within the Nigerian community.
Frank Onyekwelu, President of the Nigerian Citizens Association South Africa (NICASA), had condemned the killings and criticized the justice system after the alleged perpetrator was granted bail.
Onyekwelu also highlighted other troubling incidents, including the abduction of Nigerian businessman Silas Ani from his Johannesburg residence on April 24. The alleged kidnapper was identified as Xolani Khumalo.
Additionally, the Nigerian community is still mourning the loss of Julius Chukwunta, who was reportedly murdered at his home in Midrand on December 7, 2024.
These recurring attacks have led to renewed calls for stronger diplomatic action and protective measures for Nigerians residing in South Africa.
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