Two Nigerian men, identified as Austin and Ayo, were shot dead by unidentified attackers in Durban, South Africa, on Thursday, July 9, 2025.
The incident happened around 8 p.m. when three masked gunmen stormed Austin’s business premises.
Austin, who ran a car and tyre sales business, was with his friend Ayo at the time.
Both men were having a conversation when the gunmen entered the shop and shot them without warning.
According to witnesses, several customers fled the scene in panic.
Security footage reportedly shows the attackers approaching from the back of the shop. Austin was shot at close range while Ayo was hit while attempting to escape.
The victims were rushed to the hospital but were declared dead on arrival.
A source close to the victims, who asked not to be named, said the motive behind the killing remains unclear.
Although there are claims the incident may be related to a business dispute, no official confirmation has been provided.
Authorities have yet to arrest any suspects, and investigations are ongoing.
Efforts to reach officials from the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission were unsuccessful, as calls and messages were not answered at the time of this report.
This latest incident adds to a string of violent attacks involving Nigerians in South Africa.
Earlier in April 2025, two other Nigerians, Taiwo Raji and Yemi Akinwunmi, were shot dead in Pretoria outside their shops.
Their suspected killer was released on bail, prompting concerns within the Nigerian community.
In another case, Nigerian businessman Silas Ani was kidnapped from his home in Johannesburg on April 24, reportedly by a man named Xolani Khumalo.
Also, in December 2024, Julius Chukwunta was killed during an attack at his residence in Midrand, Johannesburg.
The Nigerian Citizens Association South Africa (NICASA) continues to call for justice and protection for Nigerians living in the country.