The South African Police Service, under the Ministry of Police in South Africa, has condemned recent xenophobic incidents targeting Ghanaian nationals and other foreign residents, describing the acts as illegal and inconsistent with the country’s constitutional principles.

In a statement released on Friday, April 24, the Ministry said police have been instructed to respond firmly to all reported cases, with orders to track down, arrest, and prosecute those involved in instigating or carrying out the attacks.

It stressed that such actions violate the values of dignity, equality, and human rights on which South Africa’s democracy is founded, adding that they will not be tolerated under any circumstances.

The Ministry further reaffirmed that South Africa is governed by the rule of law and warned that no person or group has the right to resort to self-help, regardless of their grievances.

It also urged calm among the public, calling on residents to avoid actions or rhetoric that could deepen divisions or inflame tensions.

In addition, the statement appealed to traditional authorities, civil society groups, and other stakeholders to collaborate with security agencies in preventing further violence and encouraging peaceful coexistence among all communities.