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Robert Mugabe's youngest son detained after shooting in Johannesburg
South African police have arrested Bellarmine Mugabe, 28, the youngest son of Zimbabwe's late former president Robert Mugabe, in connection with an alleged attempted murder at an upscale Johannesburg residence.
Incident details
A 23-year-old man, reportedly employed as a gardener at the Hyde Park property, was shot and critically injured during the incident. Authorities confirmed the victim remains hospitalized in serious condition after sustaining a single gunshot wound.
Police spokesperson Colonel Dimakatso Nevhuhulwi stated that officers recovered bullet casings at the scene but have not located the firearm used in the shooting. Investigators are continuing their search for the weapon.
Arrests and investigation
Bellarmine Mugabe, son of Robert Mugabe and his second wife Grace Mugabe, was taken into custody alongside another unidentified man. Journalists at the scene reported seeing Mugabe in handcuffs, though police have not officially confirmed his identity in statements.
Nevhuhulwi told reporters outside the property that neither suspect has provided information about the firearm's whereabouts. The pair are expected to appear in court in the coming days, according to a police statement.
Background
Robert Mugabe, who ruled Zimbabwe for 37 years, died in 2019 at the age of 95. He was ousted from power in 2017 following a military intervention and political pressure.
Next steps
Investigators are pursuing leads to recover the missing weapon and establish the circumstances surrounding the shooting. The suspects' court appearance is pending, with no specific date announced.
