The police in Mpumalanga have uncovered an illegal military training base at a farm in White River this morning. The illegal military base is said to be an old farm that was meant to be used for security training. During the raid, 95 Libyan nationals were arrested.

[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

THEY CAME ON STUDY VISAS

According to the provincial MEC for Community Safety Jacky Macie the Libyans they are in the country legally, on study visas. "They came here to study security. They have now violated their visa terms and conditions," Macie said. He said that as the province, they are worried as the operation was a serious one. "The operation has been going on for four months now," Macie said. He added that the Libyan nationals have allegedly been terrorising the community surrounding the farm with serious cases, including rape opened against them.

TRAINING SITE CONVERTED INTO A MILITARY BASE

Mpumalanga SAPS acting provincial commissioner Major General Zeph Mkhwanazi said he convened the provincial operation and intelligence structures (ProvJoints), including the Department of Home Affairs, two days ago after receiving intelligence information about the suspected camp. "This led to a joint operation being carried out today, resulting in the raid and subsequent arrests," Mkhwanazi said.

He added that the place, which was initially designated as a training site, appears to have been converted into an illegal military training base. "The 95 individuals taken into custody are all Libyan nationals and are currently being questioned by the relevant authorities. We take any threat to the security and stability of our province and country very seriously," said Mkhwanazi. He further said, "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." Mkhwanazi said the investigation is still ongoing and further details will be provided as it becomes available.