Ghana has confirmed that 26 Ghanaian prisoners were among the first group of nationals evacuated from South Africa following recent xenophobic attacks targeting foreign nationals.
Speaking after the arrival of the evacuees at Kotoka International Airport on Wednesday, Ghana’s Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa said the government successfully negotiated with South African authorities to allow the detainees to return home alongside the other evacuees.
According to the minister, the prisoners had been held for immigration-related offenses, including visa and permit violations.
Ablakwa thanked Cyril Ramaphosa and South African officials for cooperating with Ghana’s request, adding that the operation ensured no Ghanaian remained in prison in South Africa.
The evacuation forms part of broader efforts by the Ghanaian government to protect citizens affected by the recent wave of anti-foreigner violence.
Authorities also stated that support measures would be provided to help returnees reintegrate smoothly into society after arriving back in Ghana.
