Acting Minister of Police has strongly condemned recent xenophobic violence and intimidation directed at Ghanaian nationals and other foreign nationals following a wave of anti-immigrant protests in KwaZulu-Natal.
The ministry’s statement comes after Ghana summoned South Africa’s Acting High Commissioner to Accra on 23 April to lodge a formal complaint over harassment and intimidation of Ghanaian nationals during recent anti-immigrant demonstrations.
The incidents stem from marches and “clean-up campaigns” led by groups including the March and March Movement and the Amabhinca Nation, headed by former Ukhozi FM broadcaster Ngizwe Mchunu, which took place in Durban’s central business district this week.
During the protests, foreign-owned businesses were targeted, with more than 50 shops on Bertha Mkhize Street closing due to fear. Protesters confronted foreign nationals, demanding they produce documentation proving legal status and leave the country.
One viral video showed South African activist Victoria Africa, also known as Queen Vee, confronting a Ghanaian resident and telling him to return to his country, stating: “We don’t want you here.” Ghana’s High Commission subsequently located the victim, confirmed he was safe and provided consular assistance.
On 20 April, clashes erupted between protesters, private security guards and business owners when demonstrators marched on foreign-owned shops. Physical confrontations were reported, though no deaths or mass casualties have been confirmed from the April incidents.
KwaZulu-Natal Police Commissioner Lieutenant-General Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi warned protesters that civilians have no authority to verify immigration documents. He urged communities to report suspected undocumented migrants to police for proper deportation procedures rather than taking the law into their own hands.
Ghana’s Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa confirmed that no Ghanaian nationals had been killed in the incidents. He described the attacks as a “betrayal of Pan-Africanism”, citing Ghana’s historical support for South Africa during the anti-apartheid struggle.
The Acting Minister of Police Prof Firoz Cachalia, warned that acts of xenophobia, violence, looting or intimidation would not be tolerated and instructed the South African Police Service to act decisively.
“Those participating in, inciting or supporting such conduct would be identified, apprehended and brought before the courts,” he said in a statement.
The minister called on communities to remain calm and reject attempts to sow division and hatred, urging community leaders, civil society organisations and stakeholders to work with law enforcement to prevent further violence.
Anti-immigrant groups such as Concerned Citizens and the Voters of SA have announced plans for a nationwide shutdown on 4 May, raising concerns about potential escalation of tensions.
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