Four South African Police Arrested Over Killing of Nigerian Man in Traffic Operation

Four South African Police Arrested Over Killing of Nigerian Man in Traffic Operation

Four South African traffic police officers have been arrested over the fatal shooting of a Nigerian national, Osinakachukwu Onu, along the N12 highway in Klerksdorp, North West Province, during a traffic operation allegedly involving law enforcement officials.

According to a report by Independent Online (IOL), the officers—aged between 25 and 36—were apprehended on Wednesday by detectives after they reportedly fled the scene following the shooting but were later tracked down.

Confirming the arrests, the North West Provincial Police said the suspects are facing charges of murder and defeating the ends of justice in connection with the death of the 37-year-old Nigerian, identified as Osinakachukwu Marcus Onu.

North West police spokesperson Colonel Adéle Myburgh disclosed that the incident occurred at about 3:00 a.m. on Wednesday, December 17, while the officers were conducting a traffic operation on the N12 road.

“It is alleged that the deceased, who was reportedly legally resident in South Africa, was chased by four traffic officers. During the pursuit, Onu was allegedly shot,” the police said.

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Onu’s vehicle was later discovered stalled in the middle of the road on the opposite side of the N12. Police responders who arrived at the scene reportedly found that the traffic officers involved had already left.

Preliminary investigations led detectives to another location in Klerksdorp, where the suspects were traced and arrested. The official firearms of the officers were seized and are undergoing forensic ballistic analysis as part of ongoing investigations.

The four accused officers are expected to appear before the Klerksdorp Magistrate’s Court on Thursday, December 18, to answer charges bordering on murder and obstruction of justice.

Reacting to the development, the North West Acting Provincial Commissioner, Major General Ryno Naidoo, welcomed the arrests and commended detectives for their swift response.

The killing adds to growing concerns over the deaths of Nigerians in South Africa, further straining discussions around xenophobia, police brutality, and the safety of foreign nationals in the country.

Four South African Police Arrested Over Killing of Nigerian Man in Traffic Operation