Ghana’s High Commissioner to South Africa, Benjamin Quashie, has confirmed that no Ghanaians remain in police custody after anti-immigration protests erupted across South Africa on Tuesday, June 30.
Mr Quashie stated that while several Ghanaians were briefly detained during immigration operations, they have all been released thanks to the efforts of officials from the Ghana High Commission. “We’ve been monitoring the situation since 6 a.m. this morning. A few Ghanaians were arrested, but I can confidently inform you that all have been released through the intervention of our consular officers,” he said in an interview on Citi FM.
He explained that those detained were stopped during routine immigration checks and were asked to present identification documents. Upon confirming their nationality, South African authorities coordinated with the High Commission, leading to their release.
According to Mr Quashie, the Ghana High Commission has established a protocol with South African law enforcement, which mandates that the mission be consulted whenever a Ghanaian national is arrested. “The agreement specifies that if any Ghanaian is detained, authorities are to first confirm with us. We verify the individual’s nationality and advise them accordingly,” he elaborated.
This assurance comes amidst escalating anti-immigration protests in several South African cities, including Pretoria, where demonstrators are demanding stricter enforcement of immigration laws. The protests have raised concerns within migrant communities, prompting many foreign nationals to limit their movements out of fear of possible violence.
However, Mr Quashie noted that the High Commission has not received reports of widespread violence directed against Ghanaians. He mentioned a particular incident in which a Ghanaian individual, disregarding the High Commission’s advice to stay indoors, was confronted by protesters while visiting his shop. “The only case we recorded involved a Ghanaian who admitted to leaving his accommodation despite our warnings. Unfortunately, he encountered protesters,” he remarked.
He reassured the public that no Ghanaians have sustained injuries and that no damage has been reported to Ghanaian-owned businesses or properties during the demonstrations.
Mr. Quashie urged Ghanaians residing in South Africa to exercise caution, comply with official safety advisories, and avoid unnecessary travel until the security situation improves. He also announced that the Ghana High Commission will organise another voluntary repatriation exercise next week for citizens wishing to return home, as tensions related to immigration continue in parts of South Africa.
