South African authorities are investigating the death of a Nigerian man who collapsed while being arrested by police in Cape Town last week.
The post‑mortem indicated that Ibeh Chika Simon, 42, sustained multiple bruises and abrasions on his back and chest, according to the Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID).
"Nigeria is deeply appalled by reports of egregious police tactics that led to his death," said Nigerian diplomat Ninikanwa Okey‑Uche on Thursday.
Western Cape police stated Simon died while he was being placed under arrest as he allegedly became unwell and collapsed.
Simon's death follows heightened tensions between South Africa and Nigeria over allegations that Nigerians have been targets of xenophobic violence. Earlier in June, authorities confirmed the death of another Nigerian in similar circumstances.
Okey‑Uche’s statement called for a transparent investigation and highlighted an "alarming pattern of unresolved extrajudicial killings and unacceptable misconduct against foreign nationals." She added that "suspects are entitled to due process in a court of law; no authority should be above it."
IPID is currently investigating the incident; the Inter‑Ministerial Committee on Migration also confirmed the matter was under review.
Deputy Justice Minister Mmamoloko Kubayi noted that, during the operation, "some foreign nationals... were resisting law enforcement operations." She reiterated that South Africa "categorically rejects xenophobia, racism, homophobia, intolerance and discrimination in all manifestations" and urged citizens to rely on lawful procedures.
In related developments, Ghana has petitioned the International Criminal Court to investigate alleged attacks on migrants in South Africa, claiming a "pattern of widespread and systematic attacks" against foreigners could amount to crimes against humanity. The South African government dismissed the petition as "opportunistic".
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