South African immigration authorities have revealed that only 10 out of nearly 300 Ghanaians who presented themselves for evacuation were legally residing in the country, raising concerns over widespread immigration violations among the group.
Head of Immigration and Law Enforcement at South Africa’s Department of Home Affairs, Stephen van Neel, disclosed that investigations into the status of the evacuees uncovered significant breaches of immigration regulations.
According to him, authorities may be forced to apply sanctions as part of ongoing enforcement measures.
The revelation comes as Ghana begins the voluntary repatriation of its nationals amid growing fears over xenophobic tensions and safety concerns in South Africa.
The first batch of evacuees departed South Africa on Wednesday, while another group arrived in Accra under a government-coordinated evacuation programme.
Ghana’s High Commissioner to South Africa, Benjamin Quashie, said more than 800 Ghanaians had registered for voluntary return, explaining that many chose to leave due to insecurity and fear despite not being directly targeted.
Ghana’s Foreign Minister, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, earlier announced that government would support the returnees with transportation assistance, reintegration allowances, psychosocial support, and access to job and start-up opportunities.
Chief of Staff Julius Debrah and the Foreign Minister received the first batch of evacuees at the airport, assuring them of government support as they reintegrate into society.
Mr. Debrah encouraged the returnees to remain hopeful, stressing that the government would continue to stand by Ghanaian citizens wherever they may be.
