95 Libyans were arrested on 26 July 2024 when police raided a suspected military camp in White River, Mpumalanga. Picture: Supplied/Saps
The Home Affairs department says the Libyan nationals who came to South Africa allegedly to undergo military training will not be punished or face the death penalty when they return.
The department confirmed it was deporting the nationals on Saturday, and said an agreement on their return was discussed with the Libyan government.
The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) this week withdrew charges against 95 Libyans arrested at the suspected military camp in Mpumalanga last month.
They faced charges of contravening the Immigration Act.
“The Acting Director of Public Prosecutions, Sonja Ntuli, reviewed all available evidence and the representations made on behalf of the accused and having considered the evidence and policy considerations, has decided to withdraw the charges preferred against all accused who were arrested at the military training camp in July 2024.
“The charges related to alleged misrepresentations made by the accused in their applications for study visas.”
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The NPA said more serious allegations would need to be investigated by the South African Police Service (SAPS).
Other matters in connection with the case would be “dealt with administratively in terms of the Immigration Act and its Regulations by the Department of Home Affairs officials, the authority added.
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“Importantly, the Directorate of Priority Crime Investigations are proceeding with investigations against the planners, organisers and financiers of the military training camp.
“The NPA is working closely with DPCI to ensure that these alleged criminals are brought to justice as appropriate.”
Forensic and criminal expert Calvin Rafadi weighed in on the saga, raising concerns about inspections conducted, signage outside the facility and the tax compliance of the security company conducting the training, Milites Dei Security Services (MDSS).
“Private security, the South African Police Service and crime intelligence are in partnership but the story about how they found this military camp keeps changing,” Rafadi said.
ALSO READ: How alleged Libyan military camp was misrepresented by security company
The Private Security Industry Regulatory Authority (Psira) recently suspended the operating licence of MDSS.
Additional reporting by Jabulile Mbatha
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