Ghanaian killed in South Africa amid anti-immigration protests

A Ghanaian national has been shot dead in South Africa as tensions rise following nationwide anti-immigration protests demanding the removal of undocumented foreign nationals.

The incident was confirmed by Ghana’s High Commissioner to South Africa, H.E. Benjamin Quashie, who said the victim was a Ghanaian citizen.

He did not disclose the identity of the deceased or provide further details surrounding the shooting. Authorities have yet to determine whether the killing was directly connected to the protests that intensified on June 30.

Speaking to Citi News, Benjamin Quashie confirmed the fatal incident.

He explained that investigations are ongoing and indicated that officials were awaiting further information from South African authorities before releasing additional details.

The shooting has heightened fears among foreign nationals living in South Africa, where large-scale demonstrations were held across several parts of the country.

The protests were organised by civic organisations and anti-illegal immigration groups demanding the removal of undocumented migrants.

Demonstrators argued that illegal immigration has contributed to rising crime, unemployment and pressure on already strained public services.

The nationwide protests gathered momentum after a deadline issued by pressure groups for undocumented migrants to leave South Africa expired at midnight before the demonstrations.

The expiry of that ultimatum triggered coordinated protests in several communities, leading to increased security deployments and growing anxiety among migrant populations.

The latest killing comes as Ghana continues to implement its voluntary repatriation programme for citizens who wish to leave South Africa because of the deteriorating security situation.

Almost 1000 Ghanaians have already returned home under the programme, while authorities are preparing additional repatriation flights next week as more citizens seek assistance.

The Ghana High Commission has advised Ghanaians who remain in South Africa to exercise caution, avoid locations where demonstrations are taking place and maintain regular communication with the mission.

Officials say they are closely monitoring developments while engaging South African authorities to ensure the safety of Ghanaian citizens. Investigations into the shooting remain ongoing, with authorities expected to establish the circumstances surrounding the killing and determine whether it was linked to the recent anti-immigration protests.