95 Libyans arrested At Suspected Military Training Base In Mpumalanga

On Friday, police conducted a significant raid on a suspected military training base in White River, acting on intelligence information.

This decisive operation led to the arrest of ninety-five individuals, all reported to be from Libya. The raid underscores the seriousness with which the authorities are treating threats to national security and stability.

Mpumalanga Acting Police Commissioner Maj-Gen Zeph Mkhwanazi emphasized the importance of swift and decisive action against activities that could undermine national interests.

He stated, “This operation demonstrates our commitment to acting swiftly and decisively against any activities that could undermine our national interests and ensure the safety of our citizens because that is our primary mandate.”

[WATCH] Illegal firearms and other illegal substances were confiscated at an alleged illegal military camp in Mpumalanga just outside White River. 95 Libyans were also arrested. #Newzroom405 pic.twitter.com/yFA57fU7mD

— Newzroom Afrika (@Newzroom405) July 26, 2024

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Spokesperson Col Donald Mdhluli confirmed that the suspects found on the farmland are being questioned, and the investigation is ongoing. He reassured the public, stating, “The SAPS assures the public there is no immediate threat to community safety.”

The raid was a coordinated effort involving police intelligence and the Home Affairs Department, activated by Maj-Gen Mkhwanazi two days prior.

This operation comes in the wake of sanctions issued by the US against three individuals allegedly financing expanded ISIS activities in Africa.

The notice highlighted the destabilizing impact of ISIS operations across sub-Saharan Africa and emphasized the need for international cooperation to combat these threats. Two of these individuals have links to South Africa, involved in fund transfers and facilitating the movement of ISIS-affiliated individuals.

The police have not yet disclosed further details about the operations on the property, but the arrests for contravening the Immigration Act suggest a broader concern about security threats.

National Police Spokesperson Brig Athlenda Mathe noted that the Libyans misrepresented their visa applications, claiming they were coming to train as security guards, while it is suspected they were receiving military training.