South African authorities have arrested 95 Libyan nationals in a raid on a suspected secret military training camp, sparking an investigation into potential illegal activities and the existence of similar camps elsewhere in the country.
South African police have conducted a raid on a suspected secret military training camp in the Mpumalanga province, leading to the arrest of 95 Libyan nationals. The raid occurred on Friday, July 26, at a farm in White River, approximately 360 kilometers northeast of Johannesburg.
South African Police Raid Suspected Libyan Military Training Camp, Arrest 95 Nationals
The arrested individuals stated that they had entered the country on study visas to train as security guards. However, police investigations suggest that they received military training instead. National police spokesperson Athlenda Mathe made this revelation in a post on the social media site X.
Footage from the site of the raid, broadcast by Newzroom Afrika TV news channel, depicted a military-style camp with large green and khaki tents. The arrested individuals, wearing civilian clothing, were seen lining up.
South African Police Raid Suspected Libyan Military Training Camp, Arrest 95 Nationals
Local government official Jackie Macie stated that investigations are underway and the owner of the farm will be questioned. Authorities have received information that there may be similar secret camps near two other towns in Mpumalanga province.
Mpumalanga borders Mozambique and Swaziland, areas of concern for South African authorities regarding illegal immigration. Police and authorities have not specified whether the camps are linked to a particular group or conflict.
Macie emphasized the need to determine if there is a network of camps in South Africa and ascertain their purpose. "Why are they here doing military training in our country?" he questioned. "It may be a threat not only to South Africa but also to the entire southern Africa region."
Police have revealed that the men may be linked to crimes in communities near the farm in recent months, including rape and armed robbery. Spokesman Donald Mdhluli expressed concern about the nature of the training taking place at the camp.
Mdhluli stated that the 95 detained individuals are being interrogated by relevant authorities. Acting provincial police commissioner Maj. Gen. Zeph Mkhwanazi confirmed the Libyan nationality of the arrested persons.
The security regulator has verified that the training at the camp exceeded the scope of security guard training. "This was basically a military base," Mdhluli said. Police have launched a two-day operation to apprehend the Libyans and dismantle the camp.
The investigation will seek to uncover the extent of the Libyans' presence in the country and their motives for military training in South Africa. The potential threat posed by their activities and the possible existence of additional camps remain subjects of ongoing inquiry.
