No Ghanaian has been attacked in South Africa's June 30 anti-immigration protests — High Commissioner
Ghana's High Commissioner to South Africa, Benjamin Quarshie, has stated that no Ghanaian has been attacked or lost property in the ongoing mass anti-immigrant protests in parts of South Africa.
His assurance comes as thousands of demonstrators took to the streets across major South African cities on Tuesday, June 30, calling undocumented migrants to leave the country.
Authorities deployed a heavy police presence to prevent violence following weeks of heightened tensions and isolated attacks on foreign nationals.
Speaking on Accra-based Channel One TV's Breakfast Daily show, the High Commissioner said the Ghana High Commission has remained in constant communication with Ghanaians in the country and has advised them to stay away from areas where demonstrations are taking place.
"I can confirm from here at the High Commission that no Ghanaian has been attacked, no Ghanaian shop has been looted, and our compatriots are safe," Mr. Quarshie said.
He explained that the peaceful nature of the protests in many areas was partly due to extensive security deployment and advisories issued by African diplomatic missions urging their nationals to remain indoors and avoid unnecessary movement.
The High Commissioner also disclosed that preparations are underway for another voluntary evacuation of Ghanaians who have expressed the desire to return home.
"We have close to about 900 people that are next on the list to be evacuated to Ghana. They have voluntarily submitted their names... the Minister of Foreign Affairs, working with the Office of the President, have assured us that next week, or in the days to come, there will be a flight that will take our other compatriots back to Ghana," he stated.
According to him, the Ghana High Commission has completed the screening of most of the prospective evacuees and is working with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Office of the President to facilitate their return.
The nationwide demonstrations, organised by anti-immigration groups, have heightened fears among migrant communities, prompting several African countries to repatriate their citizens.
South African authorities, however, have insisted that only the government can enforce immigration laws and have urged protesters to remain peaceful.