Union alleges targeted raid on Nigerian businesses in South Africa

 Nigerian Union in South Africa Raises Alarm Over Alleged Property Seizures in Pretoria

The Nigerian Union South Africa (NUSA) has voiced concerns over alleged systematic property damage and seizures during a by-law enforcement operation at the Navy House, Fatima Building in Pretoria Central.

The union’s National Publicity Secretary, Akindele Olunloyo, issued a statement on Tuesday, detailing the incident.

Allegations of Property Seizure and Damage

On January 17, 2025, NUSA President Smart Nwobi was alerted by several Nigerian business owners operating in the affected building about the alleged misconduct.

The operation was reportedly carried out as part of the “Reclaim Our City” initiative, a joint enforcement effort involving:

• Department of Home Affairs

• South African Police Service (SAPS)

• Metro Police

• City of Tshwane authorities

• Gauteng Traffic Officers

The union’s statement described the operation as involving extensive property seizures and deliberate destruction of evidence.

NUSA’s Investigation and Findings

In response, Nwobi convened a team of key NUSA executives, including:

• Prof. Collins Potokri (Vice President)

• Anthonia Ndubuisi (Legal Adviser)

• Tonia Ozobu (Welfare Officer)

Ndubuisi visited the scene to gather firsthand testimonies from the affected shop owners.

“The business owners reported that officials confiscated valuable items, including Brazilian hair extensions, electronic appliances like TVs and microwaves, professional hair salon equipment, and even cash. Additionally, drinks were removed from their refrigerators,” the statement read.

Furthermore, officials allegedly dismantled CCTV cameras and their recording equipment, damaged the building’s structure, and targeted ceiling sections in what appeared to be a deliberate attempt to erase surveillance footage.

Legal Action and Next Steps

During the operation, affected business owners maintained contact with NUSA officials for guidance and support. The union’s Welfare Officer, Ozobu, helped document their grievances.

Following the incident, the victims lodged a formal complaint with SAPS Pretoria Central Station, registered under case reference CAS 385/1/2025.

“The complaint has been officially documented under CAS 385/1/2025, initiating a formal investigation into these serious allegations of misconduct by government officials,” NUSA confirmed.

The union has vowed to monitor the case closely and ensure that affected business owners receive justice and fair treatment.