A Nigerian businessman popularly known as “Big Joe” has been shot dead by unidentified gunmen in South Africa’s Mpumalanga Province, sparking renewed concerns over the safety of foreign nationals living and working in the country.
The fatal shooting occurred on Sunday, June 28, outside the victim’s business premises in Witbank, within the Emalahleni municipality. Witnesses said the attackers approached the businessman and opened fire several times at close range before fleeing the scene.
Authorities have yet to officially confirm the victim’s full identity or establish a motive for the killing. However, local law enforcement has launched an investigation and is working to identify and arrest those responsible.
The incident comes at a time of growing security concerns and renewed anti-immigrant rhetoric in parts of South Africa. Some local groups have recently intensified campaigns calling for foreign nationals to leave the country, raising fears among migrant communities.
The latest killing has triggered fresh anxiety among Nigerians and other foreign business owners, many of whom have repeatedly expressed concerns about their safety amid recurring attacks and rising tensions.
Members of the Nigerian community in South Africa have urged the South African government to carry out a thorough and transparent investigation into the murder. They also called on authorities to ensure those responsible are brought to justice.
The shooting adds to a series of violent incidents involving foreign nationals in South Africa, where concerns over xenophobia and attacks on immigrant-owned businesses have remained a longstanding issue. Community leaders are urging both governments to strengthen cooperation to protect lives and foster peaceful coexistence.
