Government begins process to bring home Ghanaian killed in South Africa

The government has begun preparations to repatriate the body of a Ghanaian citizen who was shot dead during anti-immigrant demonstrations in South Africa. This action is part of its increased diplomatic efforts to seek justice for the killing.

In a statement issued on July 1, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced that plans are underway to return the body of 40-year-old Bashiru Isak to Ghana for burial. He was killed on June 30 in Khayelitsha, Cape Town, during demonstrations linked to ongoing xenophobic attacks.

The Ministry expressed its profound shock and sadness upon receiving reports of the fatal shooting and condemned the act of violence. “The Government of Ghana strongly condemns this senseless act of violence and the rising tide of xenophobia targeting African nationals, including Ghanaians, in South Africa,” the statement said. It continued, “The taking of any life is unacceptable, and those responsible must be brought to justice without delay.”

According to the Ministry, Ghana’s High Commission in Pretoria has already lodged a formal protest with South Africa’s Department of International Relations and Cooperation and has filed a complaint with the South African Police Service after confirming the victim’s identity and informing his family. The Ministry also disclosed that an autopsy has been conducted at the request of the Government of Ghana.

The government is demanding a “full, transparent, and expedited investigation” that will lead to the arrest and prosecution of those responsible. Additionally, the Ministry urged South African authorities to strengthen protections for Ghanaians and other foreign nationals living in communities affected by the violence.