SA crime intelligence intensifies investigations into allegations of illegal military training camps linked to Lesotho

JOHANNESBURG - South Africa’s crime intelligence division has intensified investigations into allegations that illegal military training camps linked to Lesotho are operating within the country.

This follows claims made earlier this week by Lesotho’s national police commissioner, Advocate Borotho Matsoso, who alleged that Basotho youth are being recruited for military training in South Africa. 

He described the alleged activity as a growing national threat to the kingdom of Lesotho. 

Speaking at a media briefing in Matsoso pointed to a group calling itself Malata Naha, which he claims is operating from South Africa.

He accused the group of spreading misinformation and attempting to destabilise peace, security, and diplomatic relations with neighbouring countries.

In response, South Africa’s national police commissioner, Fannie Masemola, has confirmed in a statement that he has contacted his Lesotho counterpart to address the issue. 

SAPS Spokesperson Athlenda Mathe, "The two commissioners discussed the allegations made by advocate Matsoso. Both commissioners agreed that both law enforcement agencies' intelligence structures are on the ground to investigate the existence of such camps."

Mathe has urged the public to remain calm, saying authorities in both countries are closely monitoring the situation.