Bellarmine Mugabe was remanded as the attempted murder case was postponed

Bellarmine Chatunga Mugabe

ALEXANDRA MAGISTRATE’S COURT — Late former president Robert Mugabe’s son, Bellarmine Chatunga Mugabe, will remain in custody for another week after his attempted murder case was postponed on Monday to allow for a formal bail application.

The 29‑year‑old made his first appearance at the Alexandra Magistrate’s Court alongside his bodyguard, Tobias Tamirepi Mugabe Matonhdze, following their arrest at a property in Hyde Park, Sandton, last week after a shooting incident in which a staff member at the residence was injured.

Court proceedings and investigation status

Prosecutors told the court that investigations are “far from over.” Proceedings were delayed after the accused were initially taken to the Randburg Magistrate’s Court in error. Magistrate Renier Boshoff reportedly expressed frustration and at one point threatened to strike the matter from the roll before the accused were brought before the correct court.

In addition to attempted murder, the pair now face charges of defeating the administration of justice and contravening the Firearms Control Act. Prosecutor Lufuno Maphiri said the accused are charged under the doctrine of common purpose.

The firearm allegedly used in the incident has not been recovered. The State said it suspects the weapon was concealed and confirmed it remains missing. Police reportedly searched the property, including draining and inspecting a swimming pool, but the firearm had still not been located by Monday. Maphiri also said authorities still need to profile both accused and verify their immigration status.

Health and legal representation

Mugabe’s lawyer, Sinenhlanhla Mnguni, declined to comment in detail on reports that his client had collapsed in custody over the weekend, saying only that “at this stage he is fine.”

The matter was postponed to 3 March for a formal bail application, with the State indicating it intends to oppose bail.

Family and background notes

Bellarmine Mugabe is the youngest son of the late Robert Mugabe and his second wife, Grace Mugabe, who was not present in court. Grace Mugabe is reportedly in Singapore and faces an outstanding 2018 South African warrant linked to an alleged assault case involving model Gabriella Engels.

Bellarmine Mugabe remanded 2026