The Government of Ghana, has condemned in the strongest terms the killing of a 40-year-old Ghanaian national, Mr Bashiru Isak, who was fatally shot in Khayelitsha, Cape Town, on Monday, June 30, 2026, during anti-immigrant demonstrations linked to recent xenophobic attacks.

In a statement on July 1, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said it received the news with “profound shock and sadness” and described the killing as a senseless act of violence.

The ministry called for those responsible to be brought to justice without delay.

The Ghana High Commission in Pretoria has, on the instructions of the ministry, formally registered Ghana’s protest with South Africa’s Department of International Relations and Cooperation and filed a complaint with the South African Police Service.

These steps were taken after the High Commission confirmed the identity of the deceased and notified his family. An autopsy has since been performed at Ghana’s request.

Ghana is demanding a full, transparent and expedited investigation that leads to the arrest and prosecution of the perpetrators.

The government also urged South African authorities to ensure enhanced protection for Ghanaian nationals and other foreign residents in affected communities.

The ministry reiterated its expectation that South Africa, in line with its international obligations, will guarantee the safety, dignity and rights of all foreign nationals on its territory.

It noted that Ghana has already submitted a petition to the African Union Commission regarding xenophobic attacks against African nationals in South Africa and expects the AU to address the matter urgently at its next statutory meeting.

Plans are under way to repatriate Mr Isak’s body to his family in Ghana for a befitting burial. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs extended its deepest condolences to the bereaved family.

Ghanaians in South Africa who did not take part in the government’s repatriation exercise were advised to remain vigilant, avoid high-risk areas and, if in danger, contact the High Commission’s 24-hour emergency lines: 0725145476, 0726143856, 0724153373, 0767718726 or 0719858042.

The ministry said Ghana will continue to pursue diplomatic, consular and multilateral avenues to protect its citizens abroad and to prevent further attacks.