Ghana has condemned the killing of a Ghanaian national during anti-immigrant demonstrations in South Africa and called for a full investigation to ensure those responsible are brought to justice.
In a statement dated Wednesday, July 1, 2026, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs identified the deceased as 40-year-old Bashiru Isak, who was shot and killed in Khayelitsha, Cape Town, on June 30, 2026.
The Ministry said it received news of the incident “with profound shock and sadness.”
“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 disclosed that Ghana’s High Commission in Pretoria had formally protested the incident to South Africa’s Department of International Relations and Cooperation and lodged a complaint with the South African Police Service after confirming the victim’s identity and informing his family.
It added that, at the request of the Government of Ghana, an autopsy had been conducted on the deceased.
Demanding accountability, the government urged South African authorities to expedite investigations into the killing.
“Ghana demands from the South African authorities a full, transparent and expedited investigation leading to the arrest and prosecution of the perpetrators.”
The government also called on South African authorities to strengthen security measures to protect Ghanaians and other foreign nationals living in affected communities.
According to the Ministry, Ghana has already petitioned the African Union Commission over xenophobic attacks against African nationals in South Africa and expects the issue to be considered urgently at the Commission’s next statutory meeting.
Meanwhile, arrangements are underway to repatriate the remains of Mr. Bashiru Isak to Ghana for burial.
“The Ministry extends its deepest condolences to the family of the deceased during this difficult time.”
The Ministry further advised Ghanaians who have chosen to remain in South Africa despite the government’s repatriation exercise to stay vigilant, avoid high-risk areas and contact the Ghana High Commission through its emergency lines whenever necessary.
It assured the public that Ghana would continue to pursue diplomatic, consular and multilateral efforts to protect its citizens abroad and prevent similar attacks in the future.
