South African authorities have confirmed that a camp where 95 Libyan nationals were undergoing military-style training was operating illegally.
The Private Security Industry Regulatory Authority (PSiRA) revealed on Wednesday that the facility was not accredited to conduct such training.
The camp, located in the northeastern Mpumalanga province, came under scrutiny last month when police raided the premises and arrested the Libyan trainees.
Initial reports indicated the presence of military equipment and drugs at the site.
PSiRA Director Manabela Chauke clarified that the security training company responsible, Milites Dei Security Services (MDSS), holds accreditation for one facility but not the camp where the Libyans were apprehended.
The training program offered at the illegal camp was deemed atypical of standard security guard training in South Africa.
The 95 Libyans have been charged with misrepresenting themselves on visa applications and their case has been postponed.
South African authorities have since canceled their visas, citing irregularities in the acquisition process through Tunisia.
Chauke expressed concern over the nature of the training provided at the illegal camp, noting the presence of non-South African instructors with military ranks and the construction of trenches, which are not standard features of security guard training facilities.
Criminal charges against the camp owners are imminent.
As investigations continue, authorities are working to determine the full extent of the illegal operation and its potential implications for national security.