The 95 Libyan nationals who were arrested last month at a suspected secret military training camp in Mpumalanga have been deported back to their home country. According to CemAir, a specialist aircraft leasing company that transported the Libyans, they landed in their country late last night.

DEPORTED

The Libyans were given 48 hours to leave South Africa after charges against them were withdrawn by the National Prosecuting Authority last Thursday. Speaking to eNCA, CemAir CEO Miles Van der Molen said the logistics leading their deportation weren't that easy. "The logistics of organising a flight for all those passengers in 48 hours wasn't easy. We were able to take 90, and 7 others had to use different means, but we understand that they are on their way," Van der Molen said. He added that they were not problematic and looked forward to going home so they didn't give them a problem when it came to security. "They were just frustrated that they couldn't smoke for that long, but there were no transfer flights; we just had a few fuel stops. We are already in Lybia; we landed late last night. We understand that the flight was paid for by the Libyan government, "he said.

ILLEGAL MILITARY CAMP

Home Affairs Minister, Dr Leon Schreiber welcomed the swift conclusion of the deportation. "I commend the Home Affairs officials and other law enforcement officers who worked tirelessly to ensure an expeditious deportation. We will continue to deploy all resources at our disposal to ensure that the country's immigration laws are respected and observed,' said Minister Schreiber. The Libyans were apprehended during a raid on a military-style training facility last month during a joint operation with Home Affairs. Police discovered drugs, contraband, and military-grade weapons on the site. The group was facing a single charge of contravention of the Immigration Act. Private Security Industry Regulatory Authority (PSIRA) director Manabela Chauke confirmed that the camp was not accredited. After charges were withdrawn, the group was handed over to the Department of Home Affairs for deportation and the process lasted for 48 hours.