South African Police Uncover Secret Military Training Camp

South African police arrested 95 Libyan nationals at a secret military training camp in Mpumalanga province. The Libyans, who entered on study visas, were allegedly receiving military training. Authorities are investigating other possible illegal camps in the region, which is a hotbed for illegal immigration.

South African police arrested 95 Libyan nationals in a raid on a suspected secret military training camp on Friday. Authorities said they are investigating whether there are more illegal bases in other parts of the country.

The camp was discovered at a farm in White River in the Mpumalanga province, about 360 kilometers northeast of Johannesburg, police said.

National police spokesperson Athlenda Mathe said in a post on social media that the Libyans stated they had entered the country on study visas to train as security guards. However, police investigations suggest they have received military training.

Newzroom Afrika TV broadcast pictures of the arrests, showing a military-style camp with large green tents. Dozens of men, wearing civilian clothing, were seen lining up as they were arrested.

Local government official Jackie Macie said the farm owner would be questioned and that similar secret camps might exist near two other towns in Mpumalanga.

The province, which borders Mozambique and Swaziland, is an area of concern for illegal immigration. Authorities have not disclosed whether the camps are linked to a specific group or conflict.

Macie said investigations would determine if there was a network of camps and the reasons behind their military activities. Police stated that the Libyan nationals have been in the country since at least April.

"The 95 individuals taken into custody are all Libyan nationals and are currently being questioned by the relevant authorities," Mpumalanga acting provincial commissioner Maj. Gen. Zeph Mkhwanazi said in a statement.

(With inputs from agencies.)