The Government of Ghana has strongly condemned the fatal shooting of a Ghanaian national in South Africa during anti-immigrant demonstrations linked to ongoing xenophobic attacks, describing the incident as a “senseless act of violence” and demanding that those responsible be swiftly brought to justice.
In a statement issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on July, 1, 2026, the government identified the deceased as Mr. Bashiru Isak, 40, who was shot and killed in Khayelitsha, Cape Town, on June 30, 2026, during demonstrations reportedly associated with rising anti-foreigner violence.
According to the Ministry, Ghana’s High Commission in Pretoria has formally lodged a diplomatic protest with South Africa’s Department of International Relations and Cooperation and has also filed a complaint with the South African Police Service after confirming the victim’s identity and informing his family.
It stressed that “the taking of any life is unacceptable” and called for the immediate arrest and prosecution of those responsible.
The government disclosed that an autopsy has already been conducted at its request as part of ongoing investigations.
Ghana is demanding a full, transparent and expedited investigation into the killing, urging South African authorities to ensure that the perpetrators are identified, arrested and prosecuted without delay.
The Ministry also renewed its appeal to the South African government to strengthen security measures for Ghanaians and other foreign nationals living in affected communities.
“Ghana expects South Africa, in line with its international obligations, to guarantee the safety, dignity and rights of all foreign nationals on its territory, including Ghanaians,” the statement said.
The government further revealed that it has already petitioned the African Union Commission (AUC) over recurring xenophobic attacks against African nationals in South Africa, adding that it expects the continental body to treat the matter with urgency at its next statutory meeting.
Meanwhile, arrangements are underway to repatriate the body of Mr. Bashiru Isak to Ghana for burial.
The Ministry extended its deepest condolences to the bereaved family and assured Ghanaians abroad that it would continue to pursue diplomatic, consular and multilateral efforts to safeguard their lives and welfare.
Ghanaians who remain in South Africa and did not participate in the government’s ongoing voluntary repatriation exercise have been advised to stay vigilant, avoid high-risk areas and immediately contact Ghana’s High Commission through its 24-hour emergency lines should they find themselves in danger.
The latest killing is expected to renew concerns over recurring xenophobic violence in South Africa, where foreign nationals, including Ghanaians and other African migrants, have repeatedly been targeted during outbreaks of anti-immigrant unrest over the years. The Ghanaian government says it remains committed to ensuring justice for the deceased while continuing to press for stronger protections for its citizens living abroad.
