The South African Police Service has condemned recent attacks targeting Ghanaian nationals and other foreign residents in the country.

In a statement shared on its official Facebook page on April 24, 2026, the Ministry of Police described the actions as "not only unlawful but a direct opposition to the values of dignity, equality, and human rights upon which our democracy is founded".

It further cautioned the public that acts of xenophobia, violence, looting, or intimidation will not be tolerated under any circumstances.

"The Ministry of Police wishes to advise members of the public that acts of xenophobia, violence, looting, or intimidation will not be tolerated under any circumstances.

"The South African Police Service (SAPS) has been instructed to act decisively and without hesitation in addressing these incidents. All those found to be participating in, inciting, or supporting such criminal conduct will be identified, apprehended, and brought before the courts," it noted.

The Ministry also called for calm within affected communities and urged residents to reject attempts to spread division and hatred.

"The Ministry of Police calls on all communities to remain calm and to reject any attempts to sow division and hatred among residents of our country.

"The Ministry further urges community leaders, civil society organisations, and all stakeholders to work together with law enforcement agencies to prevent further violence and to promote dialogue and understanding," it added.

The statement comes in the wake of a viral video on social media showing a South African woman leading a youth group to confront a Ghanaian resident, accusing him of overstaying and calling for foreigners to return to their home countries rather than seeking opportunities abroad.

In the widely circulated footage, the woman expressed frustration over migration within the continent, declaring that Africans should focus on developing their own countries instead of relocating to others in search of better prospects.

Meanwhile, Ghana’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has called for a full-scale investigation into reported xenophobic incidents targeting Ghanaians in South Africa.

According to Ablakwa, the South African government has assured Ghanaians of immediate action.

Xenophobia: Ghanaian man attacked by South Africans speaks

“The South African Foreign Minister has expressed his empathy with the victims and promised full-scale investigations into the depressing incidents,” he noted.

He added that authorities in South Africa are expected to brief African ambassadors on the matter.

He also disclosed that Ghana’s diplomatic mission in South Africa, led by High Commissioner Benjamin Quarshie, has been actively coordinating a response and providing support to affected citizens.

“I am gladdened that, so far, colleagues in our diplomatic mission have located the main victim in the viral video and are offering consular assistance. He is doing very well. No Ghanaian life has been lost,” Ablakwa said.

He urged calm among Ghanaians while reaffirming the government’s commitment to protecting its citizens both at home and abroad.

“Let me assure compatriots that the Mahama Administration remains uncompromising about the welfare and safety of Ghanaians, both at home and abroad. We are determined to guarantee the protection of all citizens,” he added.

See the statemment below



JKB/BAI

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