Bellarmine Chatunga Mugabe, son of late Zimbabwean president Robert Mugabe, and Tobias Matonhodze Mugabe appeared in the Alexandra Magistrate’s Court on 23 February 2026. Authorities remanded them in custody until 3 March 2026 for a bail application. The Chatunga Mugabe remanded in custody stems from a shooting incident at a Hyde Park residence that critically injured a 23-year-old employee.

Officials charged the pair with attempted murder, defeating the ends of justice, and unlawful possession of a firearm. Police continue to search for the missing weapon involved in the case. This development draws attention to ongoing legal issues for the Mugabe family in South Africa.

Court Appearance and Charges

Chatunga Mugabe and Matonhodze Mugabe faced the magistrate on charges linked to the 19 February 2026 shooting. Prosecutors allege they shot the employee, who suffered two gunshot wounds. The court postponed the matter to allow for a bail hearing.

Investigators recovered a cartridge at the scene but failed to locate the firearm despite using K9 units and forensic teams. This absence supports the charge of defeating the ends of justice. Gauteng police spokesperson Colonel Dimakatso Nevhuhulwi described initial details as sketchy during early probes.

The victim remains in critical condition at a hospital. Authorities arrested the suspects shortly after private security alerted police. This Chatunga Mugabe remanded in custody highlights swift action by South African law enforcement.

Chatunga Mugabe, aged 28, has faced prior legal troubles. In 2025, Zimbabwean authorities arrested him for assault at a Mazowe gold mine. Courts granted him bail, but the case stays unresolved.

The incident recalls Grace Mugabe's 2017 controversy in South Africa. She faced assault charges against model Gabriella Engels. Officials initially granted diplomatic immunity, but a High Court later overturned it.

Moreover, the Mugabe family distanced itself from media statements about the shooting. Their lawyers issued a release noting concern over misrepresented views. This adds layers to the ongoing investigation.

Reactions from Authorities

South African Police Service confirmed the arrests and charges through spokesperson Nevhuhulwi. She stated police arrested the men after questioning them at Bramley station. No further official comments emerged on the family's position.

Media outlets reached out for reactions, but the family referred inquiries to their statement. Analysts note this Chatunga Mugabe remanded in custody could strain Zimbabwe-South Africa relations, though no diplomatic involvement surfaced yet. Proceedings resume on 3 March 2026.