Ahmad 
A South African court has adjourned the trial of 95 Libyans accused of entering the country on forged visas to August 5, 2024, due to the lack of an Arabic interpreter, which has affected the progress of the case.
The group appeared in court packed into a small courtroom, where they were charged with contravening immigration law. The defendants also face visa fraud charges after being arrested at a suspected illegal military training facility.
Judge Eddie Haas decided to adjourn the hearing until a suitable interpreter could be provided, noting the importance of a thorough review of the case to ensure the legal rights of all defendants. The judge said the defendants would remain in custody until the next hearing.
The South African Department of Home Affairs had cancelled the defendants’ visas after determining that they had entered the country illegally. Despite a previous decision to release them on bail, the authorities are challenging this decision due to the defendants’ lack of a fixed address.
Mpumalanga Public Prosecution Authority spokesperson Monica Nioswa confirmed that the accused had applied for student visas but were found undergoing military training, which adds to the complexity of the case.
The court is currently working to provide lawyers to defend the accused to ensure their legal rights and ensure a fair trial.
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