The Libyan Ministry of Foreign Affairs has denied any connection between the Libyan government and the 95 Libyan nationals arrested in South Africa. These individuals were detained during a raid on a suspected military training camp in White River, Mpumalanga province.
In a statement, the ministry clarified that the arrested persons were not sent by the government, nor were they assigned any official tasks. The Ministry expressed deep concern over the incident and has instructed the Libyan Military Attorney General and the Libyan embassy in South Africa to liaise with local authorities to understand the case’s details.
The ministry affirmed its commitment to participate in investigations to uncover the facts and ensure the detainees’ safety and fair treatment under international agreements. It condemned any actions that threaten the peace, security, or sovereignty of neighbouring and friendly states, reiterating that Libya has moved beyond such transgressions.
The Ministry also emphasized its rejection of using Libyan citizens for such purposes, pledging to work with South African authorities to investigate and uncover the individuals and groups responsible for this incident.
Earlier on Friday, South African police announced the arrest of 95 Libyans suspected of undergoing military training at a secret camp. The camp, located on a farm in White River, was allegedly a training site for a security company but appeared to be a military base. The detainees claimed they entered South Africa on study visas to train as security guards. However, police investigations suggested they were receiving military training.
Television footage showed a strong police presence at the camp, which included military-style tents and sandbags. South African authorities are currently interrogating the detained Libyans to determine the full extent of their activities.
