By Francis Kobena Tandoh
The police in South Africa has condemned recent xenophobic attacks targeting Ghanaian nationals and other foreign residents in the country, according to a post on Friday.
In a Facebook post, the Ministry of Police described the incidents as unlawful and against the principles of democracy stressing that the acts of violence and intimidation were unacceptable and would not be tolerated.
“The Ministry of Police strongly condemns the recent xenophobic acts of violence and intimidation directed at Ghanaian nationals and other foreign nationals within the Republic of South Africa,” read the post.
The South African police said that such actions go against the country’s constitutional values and democracy.
“These actions are not only unlawful, but they stand in direct opposition to the values of dignity, equality, and human rights upon which our democracy is founded,” it said.
The Ministry warned that no individual or group has the right to take the law into their own hands, regardless of any grievances.
“South Africa is a constitutional state governed by the rule of law. No individual or group has the authority to take the law into their own hands,” the statement added.
Authorities have directed the police to respond firmly to any further incidents.
“The South African Police Service has been instructed to act decisively and without hesitation in addressing these incidents,” the Ministry said.
“All those found to be participating in, inciting, or supporting such criminal conduct will be identified, apprehended, and brought before the courts.”
The Ministry also called for calm among residents and urged communities to resist division.
“We call on all communities to remain calm and to reject any attempts to sow division and hatred,” it said.
It further appealed to community leaders and civil society groups to work closely with security agencies to prevent further violence.
“The Ministry 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,” the statement added.
Recent reports of attacks on Ghanaian nationals in South Africa emerged after videos circulated online showing foreign nationals being harassed and intimidated.
The incidents sparked concern among Ghanaians both at home and abroad, with some community leaders describing the situation as part of a long-standing pattern of hostility towards foreigners.
Ghana’s Minister for Foreign Affairs Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa urged calm and engaged his counterpart to resolve the matter. Enditem
Source: Ghana Eye Report
Find the full statement from the South African Police Service (SAPS) below;
[ATTACKS AGAINST GHANAIAN NATIONALS AND OTHER FOREIGN NATIONALS]
The Ministry of Police strongly condemns the recent xenophobic acts of violence and intimidation directed at Ghanaian nationals and other foreign nationals within the Republic of South Africa.
These actions are not only unlawful, but they stand in direct opposition to the values of dignity, equality, and human rights upon which our democracy is founded. South Africa is a constitutional state governed by the rule of law. No individual or group has the authority to take the law into their own hands, irrespective of grievances or frustrations.
The Ministry of Police wishes to advise the 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.
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.
Share Us
