South African authorities are investigating the death of a Nigerian man who collapsed while being arrested by police in Cape Town last week.
Post‑mortem findings reveal that the 42‑year‑old Ibeh Chika Simon sustained multiple bruises and abrasions on his back and chest, according to the independent body overseeing police conduct.
In a statement on Thursday, Nigeria’s diplomat Ninikanwa Okey‑Uche said her country was "deeply appalled by reports of egregious police tactics that led to his death."
Western Cape police said Simon died while he was being placed under arrest after he allegedly became unwell and collapsed.
His death adds to growing tensions between South Africa and Nigeria over accusations of xenophobic violence.
Earlier this month authorities confirmed the death of another Nigerian, Egwabor Patrick Chuks, under similar circumstances, though police denied an incident.
According to a Western Cape police spokesperson, officers conducting a search at a home discovered an unlicensed firearm and what appeared to be drugs at the time of the incident.
Officials say the Independent Police Investigative Directorate (IPID) is investigating the circumstances of the collapse and death.
In a statement to the BBC, Nigeria's foreign ministry spokesperson Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa described the incident as "a very unfortunate situation."
South Africa’s Inter‑Ministerial Committee on Migration confirmed the matter was under review amid claims that foreign nationals resisted law enforcement during the operation.
President Cyril Ramaphosa has called for strict adherence to the law and has rejected xenophobia, racism, homophobia and intolerance in all forms.
