The Government of Ghana has strongly condemned the fatal shooting of a Ghanaian national during anti-immigrant demonstrations in South Africa, describing the incident as a senseless act of violence and calling for the immediate arrest and prosecution of those responsible.
In a press statement issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Tuesday, July 1, 2026, the government confirmed that Mr. Bashiru Isak, 40, was shot and killed in Khayelitsha, Cape Town, on Monday, June 30, 2026, during demonstrations linked to ongoing xenophobic attacks in parts of South Africa.
The Ministry said it received the news with profound shock and sadness, stressing that the killing underscores the growing threat of xenophobic violence targeting African nationals, including Ghanaians.
“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 statement said.
According to the Ministry, Ghana has already taken swift diplomatic steps in response to the incident. Acting on the instructions of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Ghana High Commission in Pretoria has formally lodged a protest with South Africa’s Department of International Relations and Cooperation and subsequently filed a complaint with the South African Police Service.
The government disclosed that these actions were taken after confirming the identity of the deceased and notifying his family. It added that an autopsy has been conducted on the body at the request of the Government of Ghana.
Authorities are also making arrangements to repatriate Mr. Isak’s remains to Ghana for burial.
The government has demanded a full, transparent and expedited investigation into the killing, urging South African authorities to ensure the perpetrators are arrested and prosecuted without delay.
It also renewed its appeal for enhanced protection of all Ghanaian nationals and other foreign residents living in South Africa, emphasizing that the safety, dignity and rights of every person must be guaranteed in accordance with international obligations.
The Ministry further revealed that Ghana’s petition to the African Union Commission (AUC) on xenophobic attacks against African nationals in South Africa remains active and expressed hope that the continental body will address the matter as a priority at its next statutory meeting.
In addition, the Ministry advised Ghanaians residing in South Africa to remain vigilant, avoid high-risk areas, and immediately contact the Ghana High Commission in Pretoria through its emergency lines whenever necessary.
Meanwhile, Minister for Foreign Affairs Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, in a message posted on social media, commiserated with the bereaved family and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to pursuing justice.
“Government of Ghana’s prompt interventions following the killing of a Ghanaian in South Africa during the June 30 violent demonstrations. We convey deepest condolences to the family of Bashiru Isak. The pursuit of justice shall be non-negotiable,” he stated.
The incident has renewed concerns over recurring xenophobic violence in South Africa and its impact on foreign nationals, with Ghana insisting that decisive action is needed to protect lives and prevent similar tragedies in the future
Author: Joyce Owusu
Source: Ministry of Foreign Affairs
