Insufficient evidence to charge 95 Libyan nationals

15 August 2024

The National Prosecuting Authority in Mpumalanga has today decided to withdraw charges against the 95 Libyan Nationals who were arrested by SAPS and charged with Contraventions of the Immigration Act.

The Acting Director of Public Prosecutions, Mr 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. There were other more serious allegations that SAPS needed to look into.

Having worked closely with all relevant stakeholders in the criminal justice system, it has been decided that these matters will be dealt with administratively in terms of the Immigration Act and its Regulations by Department of Home Affairs (DHA) officials.

Importantly, the SAPS (DPCI) 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.

The NPA has coordinated with its criminal justice partners and the 95 accused will be under the custody of the Department of Home Affairs that will facilitate the deportation process.

Issued by Monica Nyuswa, NPA Regional Spokesperson, 15 August 2024