White River – The 95 Libyans arrested at an illegal “military training base” on Monday, (5 August 2024), appeared in the White River Magistrate’s Court, near Mbombela (Nelspruit), where their matter was adjourned to 26 August 2024.
The Libyans, who were arrested a week ago, face charges related to contravening the South African Immigration Act.
The foreign nationals were arrested at a “secret military training camp” in Masoyi, near White River.
Allegations are that the Libyans were in the country on study visas that did not include military training, which they are accused of undergoing.
There have also been accusations that the Libyans were engaging in criminal activities within communities surrounding the “military training camp”.
However, none of the complaints have been reported to the police.
Mpumalanga police spokesperson Colonel Donald Mdhluli urged community members who had been allegedly “victimised” by the accused to “come forward”.
Spokesperson, Monica Nyuswa, said the National Prosecuting Authority was working “tirelessly” together with the police and other stakeholders to gather outstanding information to prepare a “solid” case against the accused.
The lawyer for the Libyans said his clients were being held in conditions that did not allow for their religious rites as Muslims.
As a result, the Libyans, who were remanded in custody, have since been transferred from White River to a prison in Mbombela about 45 km away.
