IN a shocking development, South African Police Service (SAPS) have unearthed a clandestine military training facility operated by Libyan nationals, raising alarm bells about potential security threats in the region. A sweeping raid in the Mpumalanga province led to the arrest of 95 Libyans, sparking concerns about a wider network of illicit camps across the country.
The camp, discovered on a farm near White River, near the Kruger National Park, was initially masked as a security guard training centre. However, SAPS’ intelligence-led investigations revealed a far more sinister operation. National police spokesperson Athlenda Mathe stated that despite claims of entering on study visas, evidence points to advanced military training taking place at the site.
Television footage showed a sophisticated setup with military-grade tents and equipment. The arrests, captured on camera, showed dozens of men in civilian clothing being apprehended, hinting at a well-organized covert operation.
Authorities are now racing to uncover the purpose behind this military training on South African soil and its potential connections to broader geopolitical conflicts. The sophistication of the equipment found at the site suggests “intense military training,” far beyond typical security guard preparation, according to Mdhluli.
As investigations deepen, questions loom about how long this operation has been active, with indications that the Libyan nationals had been in the country since at least April. The incident has thrust South Africa into the spotlight of international security concerns, prompting urgent calls for heightened vigilance and cooperation across the region to prevent further infiltration of unauthorized military activities.
This is the second illegal training camp busted by South African authorities where foreign nationals were receiving military training. In 2013, 19 DRC nationals were arrested on a farm in Limpopo, where they were allegedly receiving military training.
