Shops owned by Nigerians burnt in fresh xenophobic attack in South Africa

Nine shops belonging to Nigerians based in South Africa were burnt during an attack in Hillbrow, central Johannesburg.

NAN quoted Habib Miller, publicity secretary of the Nigerian union in South Africa, as saying the act was carried out by South Africans.

Miller said the union had informed the Nigerian mission in the country and was expecting response.

“Nine Nigerian businesses have been looted and burnt. The incident began on Sunday and continued till Monday, October 22,” he said.

“Businesses affected range from restaurants, internet cafe, bar, groceries and stores. At the time of the incident, electricity in the area was cut off. One of the businesses affected is owned by Mr C.J. Ubah, a bar owner at Fife street.”

Miller called on the police to protect the lives and property of Nigerians in the country.

“The union is monitoring the situation. We have not received any report of casualty on any Nigerian, but the situation is still tense because there are fears that the looting will resume in the night,” he said.

“We have also advised Nigerians in the area to adopt safety measures by being alert.”