Three Ghanaians have sustained injuries in the ongoing xenophobic unrest in South Africa, the foreign ministry announced Friday.

“The Mission [in Pretoria] is ensuring that the injured Ghanaians receive the necessary medical attention,” a statement said.

It further added that five Ghanaian nationals are behind bars at the Sunnyside Police Station following a swoop by the police to check on permits of foreigners.

“Officials of the High Commission have visited the Police Station to provide consular assistance to the detained Ghanaians and are following up on the matter,” the Ministry said.

It added: “Our Mission continues to send regular updates and advice to the leadership of the Ghanaian communities in the various South African provinces about the need to remain calm and stay away from crowded places and large gatherings.

“The Ministry wishes to urge the good people of this country to remain calm as we seek the interest of our nationals who are caught up in this situation and an end to the unrest.”

Black natives in South Africa have for the past week taken to looting and burning of shops owned by other nationals in Pretoria and Johannesburg.

South African police have arrested dozens of the protestors who claim immigrants, especially Nigerians are taking over their jobs and selling illicit drugs.