PSIRA on Mpumalanga Military Camp
By Lerato Mpembe
The Private Security Industry Regulatory Authority (PSIRA) has announced its decision to deregister Milites Dei Security Services following the discovery of an illegal military training camp in White River, Mpumalanga. The camp, which was not accredited, led to the arrest of 95 Libyan nationals last month during a police raid.
PSIRA CEO, Manabela Chauke, confirmed that the organisation has been conducting its own investigations into the matter. Chauke stated, “Only South African citizens can receive security training in the country,” emphasising the strict regulations governing the security industry. He also mentioned that the authority is in the process of deregistering Milites Dei Security Services due to the severity of the violations.
The training camp was found to be operating without the necessary accreditation, which raises significant concerns about the oversight and regulation of private security firms in South Africa. According to reports, the arrested Libyans were involved in military-style training at the camp, which far exceeded the accredited levels of training that Milites Dei was authorised to provide.
Chauke highlighted that while explicit concessions can be made by the government, such allowances do not extend to foreign nationals receiving military training. The discovery of this camp has prompted a broader investigation into the activities of Milites Dei Security Services and their compliance with national security regulations.
Media Briefing on Investigations
PSIRA is scheduled to update the media today on its ongoing investigations into the suspected illegal Libyan military base in White River. The base, run by Milites Dei Security, has been a focal point of controversy and legal scrutiny. Chauke noted that the organisation has been thorough in its investigations and will continue to enforce compliance within the security industry.
The court case involving the 95 Libyans has been postponed until 26 August to allow for further investigations. The delay is also to secure an Arabic interpreter and gather additional evidence. The arrested individuals face charges of contravening the South African Immigration Act, as they entered the country with visas acquired through misrepresentation in Tunis, Tunisia.
Broader Implications
This incident has sparked a broader discussion about the regulation of private security firms in South Africa and their role in national security. According to reports, the Libyan Government of National Unity (GNU) has condemned the actions of its citizens, who lied about their intentions on their visa applications. The GNU has pledged to assist South African authorities in resolving the issue and providing support to the detained individuals both diplomatically and legally.
Home Affairs Minister Leon Schreiber stated, “The visa cancellation means that all the affected Libyans are now undocumented foreign nationals.” This status complicates their legal situation and underscores the importance of stringent visa regulations.
Community Impact
The discovery of the illegal training camp has had a profound impact on the local community in Masoyi Village near the base. Reports suggest that the men were involved in activities that terrorised the community, including allegations of rape. These serious allegations are part of the ongoing investigations by the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) and the police.
Monica Nyuswa, regional spokesperson for the NPA’s Mpumalanga division, stated, “The NPA, together with the police, are working tirelessly to ensure that the outstanding investigations are finalised.” The comprehensive investigation aims to uncover all aspects of the illegal activities conducted at the camp and ensure justice for any victims.
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