– CAPE TOWN, South Africa
Diplomatic tensions between South Africa and Ghana have escalated following the shooting death of a Ghanaian citizen in Cape Town. Ghana’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs condemned the incident as part of the rise in xenophobic violence linked to the anti-immigrant protests of June 30, 2026. The ministry demanded a thorough investigation and increased protection for its citizens.
South African authorities have strongly refuted Ghana’s version of events. Justice Minister Mmamoloko Kubayi stated that the accusations are incorrect. Police investigations indicate that the killing occurred on June 29, 2026, the day before the protests, and was unrelated to any demonstrations.
The victim, identified by South African police as 35-year-old Kwabena Boagen, was shot at approximately 3:45 p.m. at the Nyanga bus terminal, outside the NTG barbershop and shoe store. The suspects entered the premises, demanded money, and shot him before fleeing. He was pronounced dead at the scene, and extortion is believed to be the motive. No arrests have been made.
Police have confirmed they have no record of another homicide in Khayelitsha matching the details provided by Ghana, which identified the victim as 40-year-old Bashiru Isak. Authorities have urged Ghana to provide specific information to assist with any further investigation.
Both governments have expressed their condolences to the victim's family. South Africa has pledged a thorough investigation and to bring those responsible to justice, emphasizing that the incident stemmed from criminal activity and not xenophobia. The case remains under active investigation by Nyanga detectives.