South African immigration authorities have revealed that the vast majority of Ghanaians who presented themselves for repatriation at OR Tambo International Airport were living in the country illegally, raising the possibility of formal sanctions against those affected.
Stephen van Neel, head of Immigration and Law Enforcement at South Africa’s Department of Home Affairs, confirmed the findings to reporters, highlighting the extent of immigration violations uncovered during the process.
“Of the 300 individuals on that list, only ten were found to be legal in the country. We obviously have to ensure that certain sanctions are enforced,” van Neel said, adding that widespread non-compliance with immigration laws was detected among the group.
The disclosure came as the first batch of Ghanaian returnees departed South Africa on Wednesday, May 27, as part of a government-coordinated evacuation prompted by rising xenophobic tensions and growing safety concerns among Ghanaians living in the country.
Ghana’s High Commissioner to South Africa, Benjamin Quashie, confirmed that more than 800 Ghanaians had registered for voluntary repatriation. He noted that while many of those seeking to leave had not been directly attacked, fear for their personal safety was the primary motivation behind their decision to return.
“The responsibility of any government is towards its citizens,” Quashie said.
“While we have excellent relations with South Africa, we had no option but to ensure that our citizens are safe.”
Back in Accra, the first group of evacuees received a warm official welcome at Kotoka International Airport, where Chief of Staff Julius Debrah and Foreign Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa led a delegation to receive the returnees.
Debrah offered words of encouragement to those who arrived under difficult circumstances, urging them to remain hopeful.
“Most importantly, we want to encourage our brothers and sisters that once they are back, they should be very optimistic and hopeful about the future. Sometimes God has different ways of opening new doors for us. As a nation, we shall always stand by our people, no matter where you find yourselves. Be encouraged, and believe that it shall all end well,” he said.
To support reintegration, the government pledged transport assistance to destinations across Ghana, reintegration allowances, psychosocial support, and the inclusion of returnees in a database for job and startup opportunities.
