A Ghanaian citizen has been shot and killed in South Africa as concerns mount over the safety of foreign nationals following renewed anti-immigration protests in parts of the country.
The death was confirmed by Ghana’s High Commissioner to South Africa, H.E. Benjamin Quashie, who disclosed that the victim was a Ghanaian national. He, however, withheld the identity of the deceased and did not provide further details about the circumstances surrounding the shooting.
South African authorities are yet to determine whether the incident is connected to the recent wave of anti-immigration demonstrations that escalated on Tuesday, June 30. Investigations into the killing are ongoing.
The shooting comes against the backdrop of rising tensions sparked by protests calling for stricter enforcement of immigration laws and the removal of undocumented migrants. The demonstrations have heightened fears among foreign nationals, many of whom say they are increasingly worried about their safety.
In response to the growing uncertainty, the Government of Ghana has intensified its voluntary repatriation programme for citizens wishing to return home from South Africa.
Officials say more than 900 Ghanaians have already been evacuated, with additional repatriation flights expected in the coming days as more citizens express interest in returning home.
The Ghana High Commission has advised Ghanaians still residing in South Africa to remain vigilant, avoid protest hotspots, and stay in close contact with the mission for timely updates and emergency assistance.
Ghanaian authorities say they are engaging their South African counterparts to ensure the safety and welfare of Ghanaian citizens while investigations into the fatal shooting continue.
