Bellarmine “Chatunga” Mugabe, the youngest son of the late Zimbabwean President Robert Mugabe, is set to face serious criminal charges in South Africa following a violent incident in Sandton.
According to the South African Police Service (SAPS), the 27-year-old is facing charges of attempted murder and defeating the ends of justice.
A senior SAPS officer, speaking to SABC News, confirmed the gravity of the situation and noted that Chatunga is not the only individual being held.
"As indicated last week, two suspects, aged 28 and 33, have been arrested for attempted murder," the officer stated. The police spokesperson further clarified that the additional charge of defeating the ends of justice was applied because a key piece of evidence is currently unaccounted for. "The firearm used in the commission of the crime has not yet been recovered," she added.
The charges stem from an altercation last week that reportedly left at least one person injured.
DEVELOPING | Bellarmine “Chatunga” Mugabe has been charged with attempted murder and defeating the ends of justice. pic.twitter.com/EklbYD8YYQ
— SABC News (@SABCNews) February 23, 2026
While the specific details surrounding the motive of the confrontation remain under investigation, authorities have confirmed that the legal proceedings are moving forward swiftly.
This is not Chatunga’s first brush with the law in South Africa.
Known for a flamboyant lifestyle and frequent appearances in the Johannesburg social scene, he has previously made headlines for nightclub brawls and visa-related issues.
However, these latest allegations mark a significant escalation in his legal troubles, carrying the potential for a lengthy prison sentence if convicted.
The Mugabe family has yet to issue an official statement regarding the arrest.
Meanwhile, the suspects are expected to appear in the Magistrate's Court shortly for a formal bail hearing.
The case has drawn significant public attention, bringing to the fore the ongoing legal scrutiny of the former Zimbabwean first family’s activities abroad.
As SAPS continues its search for the missing weapon, the court appearance is expected to provide further clarity on the events of that night.