The Government of Ghana has strongly condemned the killing of a Ghanaian national in South Africa, calling for a swift investigation and the prosecution of those responsible.
In a statement issued through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the government described the fatal shooting of Bashiru Isak, a 40-year-old Ghanaian living in Cape Town, as a “senseless act of violence” and expressed condolences to his family.
The incident occurred during anti-immigrant unrest that has spread across parts of South Africa, prompting renewed concerns about the safety of foreign nationals.
Ghana Calls for Full Investigation
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs said Ghana is seeking a thorough, transparent and expedited investigation into the circumstances surrounding the shooting.
According to the ministry, the Ghana High Commission in Pretoria has formally engaged South African authorities and lodged an official protest over the incident.
Government officials are urging law enforcement agencies in South Africa to identify, arrest and prosecute those responsible for the killing.
The ministry also appealed to South African authorities to strengthen security measures to protect Ghanaians and other foreign nationals living in affected communities.
Ghanaian officials confirmed that arrangements are underway to repatriate Bashiru Isak’s body to Ghana.
The government said the High Commission is working closely with the victim’s family and relevant authorities in South Africa to complete the necessary procedures.
An autopsy has reportedly been conducted as part of the ongoing investigation.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs said it will continue to provide consular support to the family throughout the process.
Rising Concern Over Xenophobic Attacks
The fatal shooting comes amid escalating anti-immigrant protests in parts of South Africa, where demonstrations have led to violence, looting and attacks on businesses owned by foreign nationals.
South African police have arrested hundreds of people in connection with the unrest as authorities work to restore order.
The violence has renewed concerns about xenophobic attacks, which have periodically affected migrants and other African nationals living in South Africa over the past several years.
Following the latest incident, Ghana has reiterated its call for stronger regional action against xenophobic violence.
The government has urged the African Union (AU) to continue engaging member states on measures to protect African citizens living across the continent.
Officials said attacks targeting foreign nationals undermine African unity and threaten efforts to promote regional integration and cooperation.
Safety of Ghanaians Remains a Priority
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs said the government remains committed to safeguarding the welfare of Ghanaians living abroad.
It encouraged Ghanaians in South Africa to remain vigilant, follow official advisories issued by the High Commission and report any security concerns to the appropriate authorities.
As investigations continue, Ghana says it will maintain close engagement with South African officials to ensure justice is served and to strengthen protections for its citizens living in the country.
The killing has once again drawn attention to the broader challenge of xenophobic violence in South Africa and the need for sustained efforts to prevent similar incidents in the future.
