In a tragic and alarming incident, an African national was chased and fatally shot by two assailants in outer Delhi. The crime, which took place on the evening of July 3, 2024, has been labeled a “targeted killing” by police, who are now investigating the motive behind the brutal attack. The incident has sparked outrage and fear among the local African community, raising questions about safety and discrimination.
The Incident
According to eyewitnesses, the victim, identified as 35-year-old Emmanuel Okeke, was walking home from a local market in the Dwarka area when he was suddenly confronted by two men on a motorbike. Witnesses reported that the men chased Emmanuel for several minutes before one of them pulled out a gun and shot him multiple times. Emmanuel collapsed on the spot, and the assailants fled the scene.
“It was terrifying. They were chasing him, and then we heard the gunshots. He fell to the ground, and the men sped away,” said Priya Sharma, an eyewitness who lives nearby.
Immediate Response and Investigation
Police arrived at the scene shortly after the shooting, cordoning off the area and initiating an investigation. Emmanuel was rushed to a nearby hospital but was declared dead on arrival due to the severity of his injuries. The police have recovered CCTV footage from the area and are using it to identify and track down the suspects.
“We are treating this as a targeted killing. Initial evidence suggests that the victim was deliberately pursued and attacked. We are investigating all possible motives, including personal enmity and racial bias,” said Deputy Commissioner of Police, Anil Kumar.
Background of the Victim
Emmanuel Okeke, originally from Nigeria, had been living in Delhi for the past five years. He worked as a small business owner, running a shop that sold African goods. Friends and acquaintances described him as a hardworking and friendly individual who was well-liked within the local African community.
“Emmanuel was a good man. He worked hard and was always ready to help others. We are devastated by his loss,” said Chinedu Nwankwo, a friend and fellow Nigerian resident in Delhi.
Community Reaction
The incident has sent shockwaves through the African community in Delhi, with many expressing fear and concern for their safety. Community leaders have called for a thorough investigation and swift justice for Emmanuel. They have also urged the authorities to take steps to protect African nationals in the city and address any underlying issues of racism and discrimination.
“This is not an isolated incident. Many of us have faced harassment and violence. We need the authorities to take our concerns seriously and ensure our safety,” said Grace Uche, a community leader.
Police Efforts and Statements
The Delhi police have assured the public that they are doing everything possible to apprehend the culprits and bring them to justice. They have increased patrols in the area and are working closely with community leaders to address their concerns.
“We are committed to ensuring the safety of all residents, regardless of their nationality or ethnicity. We will leave no stone unturned in our investigation and will take all necessary measures to prevent such incidents in the future,” stated DCP Anil Kumar.
Broader Implications and Concerns
This tragic incident has highlighted the broader issues of safety and discrimination faced by African nationals in India. There have been several reports in recent years of African students and residents being subjected to violence, harassment, and racial profiling. Advocacy groups are calling for stronger legal protections and greater awareness to combat racism and ensure the safety of all foreign nationals.
“We need to acknowledge and address the racism that exists in our society. Every person, regardless of their background, deserves to live in safety and dignity,” said activist Ranjana Kumari.
Government Response
In response to the incident, government officials have condemned the attack and promised action. The Ministry of External Affairs has reached out to the Nigerian High Commission to offer condolences and assure them of a thorough investigation.
“We strongly condemn this heinous act and assure the African community that we are taking all necessary steps to ensure justice. Such incidents are unacceptable and will be dealt with severely,” said a spokesperson for the Ministry.
Conclusion
As the investigation into Emmanuel Okeke’s murder continues, the focus remains on bringing the perpetrators to justice and addressing the safety concerns of the African community in Delhi. This tragic event serves as a stark reminder of the challenges faced by foreign nationals and the urgent need for effective measures to protect them.
The death of Emmanuel Okeke is not just a personal loss for his family and friends but also a wake-up call for society to confront and combat the issues of racism and violence. The path to justice and equality requires collective effort and unwavering commitment from both authorities and the public.
