The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has expressed shock and profound sadness following the fatal shooting of a Ghanaian national in South Africa during anti-immigrant demonstrations linked to xenophobic attacks.
The deceased, Bashiru Isak, 40, was shot and killed in Khayelitsha, Cape Town, on Monday, June 30, 2026, amid protests that have seen African nationals, including Ghanaians, targeted in a fresh wave of xenophobic violence.
“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 in a statement.
The Ministry said it directed the Ghana High Commission in Pretoria to formally register Ghana’s protest with South Africa’s Department of International Relations and Cooperation, and to file a complaint with the South African Police Service.
These steps were taken after the identity of the deceased was confirmed and the bereaved family notified.
An autopsy has since been performed on the body at Ghana’s request.
Ghana is demanding a full, transparent and expedited investigation leading to the arrest and prosecution of the perpetrators, and has reiterated its call on South African authorities to enhance protection for Ghanaians in affected communities.
The Ministry further noted that Ghana has already transmitted a petition to the African Union Commission (AUC) regarding xenophobic attacks against African nationals in South Africa, and expects the AU to treat the matter with urgency at its next statutory meeting.
Meanwhile, the Ministry said arrangements are underway to repatriate the remains of the late Bashiru Isak to his family in Ghana for burial.
The Ministry extended its deepest condolences to the bereaved family.
Ghanaians in South Africa who did not take advantage of the Government’s earlier repatriation exercise have been advised to remain vigilant, avoid high-risk areas, and contact the High Commission on its 24-hour emergency lines in the event of any danger: