Robert Mugabe’s son in court on attempted murder charge
The youngest son of the late former President of Zimbabwe Robert Mugabe has appeared in a South African court facing an attempted murder charge
Bellarmine Mugabe, 28, was arrested last week following a shooting at a luxury property in Johannesburg’s Hyde Park neighborhood that left a 23-year-old man critically injured.
The victim was shot in the back while attempting to flee the residence last Thursday, according to prosecutors.
Mugabe appeared calm during the brief court hearing, dressed in black. His bodyguard, Tobias Tamirepi Matonhodze, 33, was also in custody alongside him.
Both men face additional charges of defeating the ends of justice related to a missing firearm.
Police discovered bullet cartridges at the scene but have not located the weapon used in the shooting.
Prosecutors allege an altercation occurred between the victim and Mugabe inside the home before the shooting. The wounded man remains hospitalized in critical condition.
Speaking outside court, Mugabe’s lawyer Sinenhlanhla Mnguni said his client was “fine” while in custody. The case has been postponed until March 3, when a bail application will be filed.
Bellarmine is the youngest son of Robert Mugabe and his second wife Grace. The former Zimbabwean leader, who died in 2019, ruled the country for 37 years before being ousted in 2017.
