Accra, May 25, GNA - A statement from the Office of the President said reports received from the Ghana High Commission in South Africa indicate that some businesses belonging to Ghanaians have been attacked in that country.

The statement issued on Sunday and signed by Mr Andrew Awuni, Press Secretary to the President and Presidential Spokesman, said it was also reported that about 70 Ghanaians were seeking refuge with the security agencies in South Africa It said President Kufuor has directed the Ghana High Commission in South Africa to give the necessary assistance to all Ghanaians in that Country.

He has also directed the High Commission to arrange safe passage for Ghanaians, who desired to return home.

Troubles flared up two weeks ago with waves of attacks on foreigners in the township of Alexandra, near Johannesburg, and have since spread to seven out on the nine provinces of South Africa. South African Police said on Sunday that about 50 people have been killed while 25,000 others had fled from their homes.

Meanwhile, South African President Thabo Mbeki has condemned the wave of attacks on foreigners and has described it as "absolute disgrace that has blemished the Country's image".