The son of Zimbabwe's late president pleads guilty in South African shooting case

Written by: Mohamed Ragab

Bellarmine acknowledged MugabeRobert Mugabe, the son of the late Zimbabwean president, pleaded guilty in Alexandra Magistrates' Court, South Africa, to charges related to pointing a firearm and remaining in the country illegally. Developments In a high-profile criminal case that is still awaiting a final verdict.

Details of the charges against Mugabe and his cousin

According to reports, the case dates back to a shooting incident that occurred on February 19 inside Mugabe’s residence in Johannesburg, in addition to a previous incident in the same month, during which he allegedly pointed a firearm at another person.

Mugabe also admitted to violating South African immigration laws.

In contrast, his cousin Tobias Matonhodzi pleaded guilty to more serious charges, including attempted murder, illegal possession of firearms and ammunition, obstruction of justice, and violations of residency and immigration laws.

Confession of shooting and concealing evidence

During court proceedings, Matonhudzi admitted to shooting one of Mugabe's aides, Sibu Mahlangu, twice in the back, and then concealing the weapon. Despite investigative efforts, police have only recovered two cartridges, and the firearm has yet to be found.

The defense lawyers requested alternative punishments to imprisonment, such as fines and voluntary deportation to Zimbabwe. They pointed out that the defendants had no criminal record in South Africa and that they ran agricultural projects that provided employment for dozens of workers, with funds allocated to compensate those affected.

The court decided to postpone the verdict to a later session to allow for the completion of investigations into the missing firearm and a review of compensation claims. Mugabe and Matonhodzi are scheduled to appear in court again on April 24, amid anticipation of the court's final decision in the case.