South Africa drops charges against 95 Libyans arrested at alleged military camp
South African authorities have dropped charges against 95 Libyan nationals who were arrested at an alleged illegal military camp in White River due to insufficient evidence.
The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) spokesperson, Monica Nyuswa, confirmed that the case has been withdrawn as there was not enough evidence to prosecute the men for receiving military training.
The Libyans, who were initially detained on suspicion of participating in military exercises, have now only been charged with violating South Africa's immigration laws.
The Department of Home Affairs has announced that the detainees will be deported to Libya, with the department ensuring that the deportations are conducted swiftly.
“Consequently, Home Affairs officials were in court to secure the confirmations for deportation from the Magistrate as this would pave the way for their deportation. As indicated earlier, deportation was among the options Home Affairs considered working with other law enforcement authorities," the department said in a statement.
The arrests took place on July 26, when South African police raided a farm in White River, uncovering what they described as an "illegal" military camp. During the raid, officers discovered military tents, licensed firearms, and other military equipment.
The detained Libyans had reportedly entered South Africa on study visas, claiming they were training to become security guards.
