Accra, Ghana – Ghanaian nationals evacuated from South Africa following recent xenophobic violence have received national commendation after extensive security screening revealed that none of the returnees were linked to criminal activity.
The announcement was made by Ghana’s Foreign Affairs Minister, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, who described the outcome as a major source of pride for the country and a strong endorsement of the reputation of Ghanaians living abroad.
Speaking at Accra International Airport while welcoming the second batch of evacuated citizens, the minister said the successful screening process demonstrated that Ghanaians in South Africa are overwhelmingly law-abiding and hardworking individuals.
Joint Security Vetting Conducted Before Evacuation
According to the minister, South African authorities requested a comprehensive security verification exercise before approving the evacuation operation.
The process involved collaboration between Ghanaian and South African security agencies, who cross-checked identities, biometric information, and personal records against criminal databases and wanted persons lists.
After screening hundreds of individuals, officials reportedly found no Ghanaian national linked to criminal activity.
“Not a single Ghanaian was arrested during the screening process,” the minister stated, emphasizing that the outcome reflects positively on Ghana’s international image.
Xenophobic Attacks Prompt Emergency Evacuation
The evacuation operation was launched following renewed xenophobic attacks targeting foreign nationals in parts of South Africa.
The attacks forced hundreds of Ghanaians to seek assistance from Ghanaian diplomatic missions, prompting government intervention to facilitate their safe return home.
The latest batch brings the number of evacuated citizens closer to 1,000, making it one of Ghana’s largest recent emergency repatriation exercises.
Ghana’s Image Strengthened Abroad
Mr. Ablakwa noted that the clean security record has helped counter negative stereotypes often directed at migrants and foreign nationals.
He praised the evacuees for upholding Ghanaian values despite difficult circumstances.
“You have made Ghana proud. You have shown that Ghanaians are responsible, peaceful and law-abiding wherever they live,” he told the returnees.
The minister added that the results reinforce Ghana’s reputation as a nation whose citizens contribute positively to communities around the world.
Government Promises Reintegration Support
The government has announced plans to support the returnees through reintegration programmes aimed at helping them rebuild their lives after returning from South Africa.
Officials say efforts are underway to connect affected individuals with employment opportunities, social support services, and other assistance programmes.
Government representatives are also exploring diplomatic avenues to seek compensation for citizens who lost property or suffered damages during the attacks.
South Africa Continues to Face Security Challenges
The evacuation occurred amid ongoing concerns about violent crime in South Africa.
Although recent crime statistics indicate a decline in murders, robberies, and carjackings, the country continues to experience some of the highest violent crime rates globally.
Security analysts believe economic pressures, unemployment, and social tensions remain key drivers of periodic anti-foreigner violence.
Final Evacuation Flight Expected
The final group of Ghanaian evacuees is expected to arrive shortly, concluding the government’s emergency repatriation mission.
Foreign Affairs officials say the operation highlights Ghana’s commitment to protecting its citizens abroad while preserving the country’s reputation on the international stage.
