Police have arrested 95 Libyan nationals after uncovering an illegal military training base at a farm in White River, Mpumalanga on Friday.
Mpumalanga police spokesperson Col Donald Mdhluli said the arrest came after police in the province and the department of home affairs received intelligence information about the illegal military training base.
Mdhulili said the farm where the arrests took place is accredited as a security training site.
“The South African Police Service (SAPS) in Mpumalanga, working together with the Provincial Joint Structures (ProvJoints) structure, including the Department of Home Affairs and other role players like Police Intelligence, have uncovered a suspected military training base in White River. They apprehended 95 foreign nationals in connection with the discovery.
Place initially designated as a training site
“Acting Provincial Commissioner …of the SAPS in Mpumalanga, Major General (Dr) Zeph Mkhwanazi, convened the ProvJoints two days ago after receiving intelligence about the suspected camp. This led to a joint operation being carried out today, Friday 26 July 2024. It resulted in the raid and subsequent arrests.
“The place, which was initially designated as a training site, appears to have been converted into an illegal military training base. The 95 individuals taken into custody are all Libyan nationals. They are currently being questioned by the relevant authorities,” said Mdhluli.
“We take any threat to the security and stability of our province and country very seriously. This operation demonstrates our commitment to acting swiftly and decisively against any activities that could undermine our national interests. And to also ensure the safety of our citizens, because that is our primary mandate,” said Mkhwanazi.
Mdhluli said the investigation is still ongoing, and further details will be provided as they become available.
The SAPS would like to assure the public that there is no immediate threat to community safety. Anyone with information about similar or related activities is urged to contact the SAPS Crime Stop number 08600 10111. Or submit tips via the MYSAPSAPP. All information will be treated with the strictest confidentiality,” said Mdhluli.
National police spokesperson Brig Athlenda Mathe said the 95 Libyans were arrested at a farm in White River. They were arrested for contravening the Immigration Act.
Lied on their visa applications
Mathe said the Libyan nationals allegedly misrepresented themselves on visa applications to South Africa. They claimed they were coming to train as security guards. She said Mpumalanga police suspect the Libyan nationals are receiving military training.
National police commissioner Gen Fannie Masemola confirmed the matter. He said a team of detectives is investigating the alleged suspicious activities at the farm.
Masemola said when police arrived at the farm on Friday morning, they found the Libyans housed in military tents. Military equipment was also found, including licensed firearms.
“SAPS detectives cannot rule out the possibility that the farm is allegedly being utilised as an illegal military training camp. [This despite it being accredited as a security training site]. The… SAPS is working closely with the Department of Home Affairs on this case to determine the circumstances surrounding how these nationals obtained their visas.
Dagga, cocaine also found at the illegal military camp
“During the takedown operation, police also found dagga and cocaine. Some of the other drugs found in their possession are being sent to the SAPS forensic science laboratory in Pretoria. This is in order to identify them as illegal substances. The safety and security of our citizens is of paramount importance. And the SAPS remains committed to dealing decisively with transnational organised crime,” said Masemola.
