The police in Mpumalanga have uncovered a suspected illegal military training camp, arresting 95 Libyans at a farm in White River.
The men allegedly misrepresented themselves on their visa applications to the country, claiming they were coming to train as security guards.
But authorities say it seems like they had been receiving military training and will be charged for contravening the Immigration Act.
The Mpumalanga MEC for Community Safety, Security and Liaison, Jackie Macie, says they are worried.
“It looks like there is a serious operation that’s happening here in this farm since April. The Libyan foreign nationals who are here applied for visa to study security training. However, they have violated their visa conditions. They are here now conducting military bases,” Macie says.
He says the men are suspected to be behind the harassment of communities that have been reported to the authorities.
“There are serious cases that have been opened against people who we are unable to identify so far. Cases of rape and people harassing communities around these areas.”
The SAPS in the province had been working with the ProvJoint structure, including the Department of Home Affairs and other role players like Police Intelligence on the matter after receiving intelligence information about the suspected camp.
“We take any threat to the security and stability of our province and country very seriously,” says the Mpumalanga police commissioner, Major General Zeph Mkhwanazi.
“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.”
Major General Mkhwanazi says the investigation is still ongoing, and the nation will be briefed on further details 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.”
Written by: Lindiwe Mabena
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