26 Jul 2024 | 02:14 PM UTC
South Africa: Police raid near Mbombela, Mpumalanga Province, early July 26
Authorities arrested 95 Lybian nationals at a suspected military training base near Mbombela, South Africa, early July 26.
Authorities announced the arrest of 95 Libyan nationals suspected of being part of a covert "military training base" operating in a remote location near White River, Mpumalanga Province, July 26. South African Police Services (SAPS) personnel raided the compound early July 26; early reports suggest licensed firearms, military equipment, as well as banned substances were recovered. Possible links to criminal syndicates or terrorist cells are unclear.
There are no immediate concerns for travelers in the area. Minor ground travel disruptions are likely in the coming days in the area as authorities conduct their investigation.
White River is 15 km (10 miles) north of Mbombela (Nelspruit).
Remain vigilant if travelling in the affected area. Plan for localized increased security and possible ground travel disruptions.
South Africa's status as a regional economic hub makes it a potentially attractive target for transnational terrorist groups. While extremists have not gained a solid foothold in the country, terrorist groups and criminal syndicates are believed to have used the country for recruitment, financing, and logistical purposes to carry out attacks in other countries. These are known for exploiting the country's porous borders - especially Mpumalanga's with Mozambique and Eswatini - and ease of access to passports to travel.
Foreign governments have warned of possible terrorist cells operating in South Africa and have issued travel alerts to their nationals about the potential for attacks, including in areas popular with tourists and expatriates. Authorities have typically downplayed these threats, none of which have resulted in any significant attacks in recent years. The main concern has remained militants' online propaganda and the potential for self-radicalized individuals to carry out attacks in the country.
