A 42-year-old Ghanaian woman identified as Bernice Diana Akuffo is reportedly fighting for her life in South Africa after suffering severe injuries during what family members describe as a brutal xenophobic attack in Johannesburg.
Graphic images circulating online show the Ghanaian hairdresser with deep facial wounds, cuts across her body, and severe bruising allegedly inflicted during the assault.
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According to information shared by relatives and close associates, Ms Akuffo, who has reportedly lived in South Africa for more than two decades, was attacked by a group of unidentified hoodlums while going about her daily activities in Johannesburg.
Her family claims the attackers demanded that she leave the country before assaulting her with sharp objects, leaving her with life-threatening injuries to her face, limbs, and body.
Disturbing Images Spark Anger Online
The disturbing images of the injured Ghanaian woman have triggered outrage across social media, with many Ghanaians demanding urgent diplomatic intervention and stronger protection for citizens living abroad.
Some users described the incident as another reminder of recurring xenophobic tensions faced by African migrants in parts of South Africa.
Ms Akuffo was reportedly later located and assisted following the intervention of Ghana’s High Commission in Pretoria after distress calls were made to authorities.
Family Appeals For Emergency Evacuation
According to reports, Ms Akuffo’s son has petitioned Ghana’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs to urgently facilitate her protection, medical support, and possible evacuation back to Ghana for further treatment.
The family says they fear for her safety amid escalating tensions and growing hostility toward foreign African nationals in some communities.
Ghana’s Minister for Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, is reported to have assured affected Ghanaian citizens of the government’s commitment to their safety and protection.
Renewed Concerns Over Xenophobic Violence
The alleged attack has renewed wider conversations about xenophobic violence in South Africa, where foreign nationals from several African countries have periodically faced attacks, intimidation, and destruction of businesses over the years.
Human rights advocates have repeatedly called for stronger regional cooperation and urgent measures to protect African migrants living across the continent.
Many online users are now urging both the Ghanaian and South African governments to ensure accountability while strengthening diplomatic engagement to prevent future attacks.
Why This Story Matters
The attack on Bernice Diana Akuffo goes beyond a single criminal incident. It highlights growing fears among African migrants and raises serious questions about regional solidarity, citizen protection abroad, and the safety of Ghanaians living across Africa.
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