Ghana demands probe into killing of national in South Africa xenophobic violence
The Government of Ghana has condemned the fatal shooting of a Ghanaian national during anti-immigrant demonstrations in South Africa and is demanding a full investigation to bring those responsible to justice.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, July 1, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs identified the deceased as 40-year-old Bashiru Isak, who was shot dead in Khayelitsha, Cape Town, on Monday, June 30, during demonstrations linked to ongoing xenophobic attacks.
The latest development comes as South Africa grapples with renewed anti-immigrant unrest that has triggered arrests, deaths and the displacement of thousands of foreign nationals across several provinces, prompting concern from governments and rights groups.
"The Government of Ghana condemns, in the strongest terms, this senseless act of violence and the rising tide of xenophobia targeting African nationals, including Ghanaians, in South Africa. The taking of any life is unacceptable and those responsible must be brought to justice without delay," the ministry said.
The ministry disclosed that the Ghana High Commission in Pretoria had, on the instructions of the government, lodged a formal protest with South Africa's Department of International Relations and Cooperation and filed a complaint with the South African Police Service after confirming the victim's identity and informing his family.
It said an autopsy had been conducted at the request of the Government of Ghana and demanded "a full, transparent and expedited investigation leading to the arrest and prosecution of the perpetrators."
The ministry also called on the South African authorities to strengthen security for Ghanaians living in affected communities and ensure the safety, dignity and rights of all foreign nationals in line with the country's international obligations.
It recalled that Ghana had already petitioned the African Union Commission over xenophobic attacks against African nationals in South Africa and urged the continental body to treat the matter as a priority at its next statutory meeting.
Meanwhile, arrangements are underway to repatriate the body of Mr. Isak to Ghana for burial.
"The Ministry extends its deepest condolences to the family of the deceased during this difficult time," the statement added.
The ministry further advised Ghanaians who remained in South Africa after declining the government's voluntary repatriation exercise to stay vigilant, avoid high-risk areas and contact the Ghana High Commission through its emergency lines whenever they are in danger.
The killing comes after Ghanaian authorities had earlier evacuated hundreds of nationals to safe locations ahead of the June 30 demonstrations, while the High Commission urged citizens to remain indoors as tensions escalated.