The High Commission of Ghana in South Africa has urged Ghanaian residents to temporarily close their shops whenever security directives are issued, as rising xenophobic attacks targeting migrants heighten tensions in South Africa.
The security advisory comes amid attacks reportedly led by vigilante groups targeting Ghanaians and other African migrants, with reports of assaults, intimidation and attempts to deny foreigners access to public health services.
The directive was reiterated during an engagement between Ghana’s High Commissioner to South Africa, Benjamin Quarshie, and Ghanaian national Emmanuel Owusu, who was recently accosted by alleged members of the Patriotic Alliance and ordered to return to Ghana in an incident that has sparked diplomatic concern.
In a statement, the mission urged Ghanaians to remain law-abiding, comply with security guidance and promptly report credible threats or incidents through the High Commission’s emergency channels.
“Meanwhile, the Mission reiterates its ongoing advisories to Ghanaians in South Africa to remain law-abiding, to comply with guidance regarding the closure of shops when advised, and to promptly communicate any credible information regarding possible incidents to the High Commission of Ghana in Pretoria,” the statement said.
The mission also confirmed that Emmanuel Owusu is safe and continues to receive consular assistance, with Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa having spoken directly with him and assured him of Ghana’s support amid the difficult circumstances.
Story by: Isabella Kabukuor Atrikpe
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