South African police have made a significant arrest of 95 Libyan nationals in a raid on a suspected secret military training camp. The operation took place at a farm in White River, Mpumalanga province, approximately 360 kilometers northeast of Johannesburg. The individuals claimed to have entered the country on study visas to train as security guards, but police investigations suggest they were actually undergoing military training.
The discovery of the camp raised concerns, with authorities now investigating the possibility of similar illegal bases in other parts of the country. Pictures from the scene revealed a military-style camp with rows of large green and khaki tents. The men, who were wearing civilian clothing, were seen lining up during the arrests.
Local government officials are actively involved in ongoing investigations, with plans to question the farm owner. Reports indicate that there may be similar secret camps near two other towns in Mpumalanga province, which shares borders with Mozambique and Swaziland.
While the police have not linked the camps to any specific group or conflict, they are taking the situation seriously due to potential security threats. Recent crimes reported in nearby communities, including cases of rape and armed robberies allegedly involving unknown foreigners, have added to the urgency of the situation.
The operation to arrest the Libyan nationals and shut down the camp began two days prior to the announcement. The individuals had been in the country since at least April and are currently being questioned by authorities. The country's security regulator has confirmed that the nature of training at the camp far exceeded that of security guard training, indicating intense military activities.
Authorities are determined to uncover the motives behind the military training on South African soil and ascertain if there is a network of such camps in the country. The potential threat posed by these activities not only to South Africa but also to the broader southern Africa region is a cause for concern.
