95 Libyans Arrested in Raid on Suspected Military Training Camp in South Africa Appear in Court

In Summary

• 95 Libyan nationals arrested for allegedly receiving military training in South Africa.
• Arrested individuals claimed to have entered the country on study visas for security guard training.
• Case postponed to 5 August for an Arabic interpreter; all remain in custody.

GAUTENG, SOUTH AFRICA- Ninety-five Libyan nationals, apprehended on Friday during a raid on a suspected secret military training camp, appeared in court in Gauteng, South Africa, on Monday. The arrests took place outside the town of White River, approximately 360km (220 miles) east of Johannesburg.

According to police statements posted on social media site X, the Libyans claimed they had entered South Africa on study visas with the intention of training as security guards. However, police investigations indicate that they were actually undergoing military training.

Monica Nyuswa, representing South Africa's National Prosecuting Authority, elaborated on the charges, stating, "When they left their country in Libya and came here to study in South Africa, however where they were found they were doing training to become soldiers." This misrepresentation on their visa applications forms the basis of the charges against them.

The court session was postponed to 5 August to allow time for the court to arrange for an Arabic interpreter. During the hearing, all 95 detainees appeared in civilian clothing and are to remain in custody until the next court date.

Authorities have also announced an ongoing investigation to determine if additional illegal military training bases exist in other parts of the country. The case has raised significant concerns about the potential misuse of study visas and the presence of unauthorized military activities within South Africa.