Who are 95 Libyans linked to illegal military training camp in Mpumalanga?
It is alleged that they falsified information when applying for visas, obtaining study permits under the guise of training to become security guards, but instead reportedly received military training.
95 Libyan nationals linked to an illegal military training camp in Mpumalanga appeared in the White River Magistrates Court on 29 July 2024 on charges of violating the country's immigration act. Picture: Katlego Jiyane/Eyewitness News
Clarence Ford interviews Ryan Cummings, Director of Signal Risk.
Listen below.
The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) has not ruled out the possibility of additional arrests in the case involving 95 Libyan nationals connected to an illicit military training camp in Mpumalanga.
On Monday, the group appeared before the White River Magistrates Court, facing charges of breaching the Immigration Act.
It is alleged that they falsified information on their visa applications, obtaining study permits under the guise of training to become security guards, but instead reportedly received military training.
Cummings says no clear evidence implicates Home Affairs.
However, given its history of corruption, government involvement may be possible, he says.
According to Cummings, the Libyans are affiliated with the Tariq Ben Ziyad Brigade, which is linked to the infamous Libyan National Army commander Khalifa Haftar.
He says that these individuals were sent to South Africa to undergo training as 'special forces', under the oversight of a confidential Irish security firm.
This group has been accused of a range of human rights abuses, including sexual assault and extrajudicial killings, adds Cummings.
So on the issue of the Libyan nationals who were found at a military camp in Mpumalanga province, I decided to see if I could source information from Libyan media on the development. And came across some very interesting information (Thread)
— Ryan Cummings (@Pol_Sec_Analyst) July 29, 2024
"Some of these sources are within Libyan political structures, so I think they can be deemed trustworthy."
- Ryan Cummings, Director – Signal Risk
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