Ghana demands justice after citizen allegedly killed during June 30 protests in South Africa

Ghana’s government has called for swift justice after confirming that a Ghanaian national was fatally shot during the June 30 anti-immigration demonstrations in South Africa. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs described the killing as a “senseless act of violence” and demanded the arrest and prosecution of those responsible.

Diplomatic steps and official protests

The ministry said it had received reports that 44-year-old Bashiru Isak was fatally shot during demonstrations linked to what the statement described as ongoing xenophobic attacks. Ghana’s High Commission in Pretoria has lodged a formal protest with South Africa’s Department of International Relations and Cooperation and filed a complaint with the South African Police Service (SAPS).

Calls for investigation and protections

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs said an autopsy was conducted at the request of the Ghanaian government and that Ghana is demanding “a full, transparent and expedited investigation leading to the arrest and prosecution of the perpetrators.” The ministry also urged South African authorities to strengthen protections for foreign nationals living in affected communities.

“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 ministry said.

Continental action and repatriation

The statement noted that a petition previously submitted to the African Union Commission about xenophobic attacks against African nationals in South Africa remains active, and Ghana said it expects the AU to treat the matter with urgency at its next statutory meeting. Arrangements are underway to repatriate Isak’s body to Ghana for burial.

Advice to nationals and broader context

The ministry extended its condolences to the victim’s relatives and urged Ghanaian nationals in South Africa to remain vigilant, avoid areas considered high-risk and seek assistance from the Ghana High Commission if they require emergency support. The June 30 demonstrations, which took place in several parts of South Africa, were centred on concerns around illegal immigration. Authorities have been investigating incidents linked to the protests, including reports of attacks on foreign nationals and foreign-owned businesses.