Libyan Nationals Arrested at South African ‘Military Camp’ to Be Deported

South African prosecutors have dropped charges against 95 Libyan nationals who were apprehended on suspicion of undergoing illegal military training in Mpumalanga. The charges were withdrawn due to insufficient evidence, according to Monica Nyuswa, spokesperson for the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA).

While the group will not face criminal prosecution for military activities, they have been charged with violating South Africa's immigration laws. The Department of Home Affairs confirmed that the men will be deported to Libya, with a statement promising that "the deportations will be conducted swiftly."

Initial Arrest and Allegations

The arrests occurred in July when South African police raided a farm near White River, Mpumalanga. The farm was initially registered as a training facility for a private security company. However, police allege it had been converted into a military-style camp.

A police spokesperson indicated that the group had allegedly misrepresented themselves on visa applications, stating they were in South Africa for security guard training.

During the raid, authorities reportedly found licensed firearms, military tents, cocaine, and cannabis at the camp. South African police are still investigating the farm’s owner, a South African national, to determine if he had the necessary authorization to operate the site as a military camp.

Reactions and Legal Proceedings

Nico du Plessis, a lawyer representing one of the Libyan detainees, expressed relief on behalf of his clients, stating the group was "happy" that the charges were dropped. The men are expected to be deported to Benghazi, Libya's second-largest city.

Despite the withdrawal of charges against the Libyans, investigations into the owner of the farm and the camp’s operations are ongoing. Police spokesperson Donald Mdhluli confirmed that authorities are examining whether the conversion of the site into a military-style camp was lawful.

Libya’s Instability

Libya has experienced chronic instability since the 2011 ousting and killing of its longtime leader, Muammar Gaddafi. The country remains divided, with factions vying for control in different regions. The deportation of the 95 Libyans will return them to a nation still grappling with insecurity and political upheaval.