The case against Chatunga Bellarmine Mugabe, the son of late Zimbabwean President Robert Mugabe, and co-accused Tobias Matonhodze was postponed to March 24 during an appearance at the Randburg Magistrate’s Court. Mugabe and Matonhodze, who face charges including robbery and assault, withdrew their application for bail after the state prosecutor revealed their illegal immigration status in South Africa.
The proceedings took place last week, where the defense attorneys for both men formally abandoned their request for bail. According to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), this decision was made after the prosecution presented information indicating that the accused individuals were in the country without legal documentation.
NPA spokesperson Phindi Mjonondwane confirmed the development to reporters outside the court. The defense team subsequently informed the court of its intention to pursue a plea and sentence agreement with the state. Mugabe and Matonhodze will remain in custody pending their next court appearance.
The charges stem from an incident that reportedly occurred in the Sandton area of Johannesburg in February. A complainant alleged that he was assaulted and robbed of personal belongings, including a designer watch and a cell phone. The South African Police Service investigated the complaint, which led to the arrest of Mugabe and Matonhodze.
They now face formal charges of robbery and assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm.
Chatunga Bellarmine Mugabe is the youngest son of Robert Mugabe, who served as the leader of Zimbabwe from 1980 until his removal from power in 2017. He passed away in 2019.
The case will resume on March 24 for further proceedings and to allow for potential plea negotiations between the defense and the state.
