Zimbabwe in shock after ex-president Robert Mugabe’s son allegedly shoots security guard

Bellarmine Chatunga Mugabe, 28, was taken into custody on Thursday, February 19, following the incident. Police say the victim, a 23-year-old employee at the property, was shot and is being treated in hospital for two gunshot wounds. He is reported to be in critical condition.

According to the South African Police Service (SAPS), officers were called to the scene after neighbours reported hearing two to three gunshots.

SAPS spokesperson Dimakatso Nevhuhulwi confirmed the arrest. “The police can confirm that the two men that were brought in for questioning in relation to a shooting that occurred earlier today at Hyde Park have been officially arrested and are expected to appear before Alexandra Magistrates’ Court soon on charges of attempted murder. Police investigations continue,” she said.

Police are investigating a case of attempted murder. Authorities said cartridges were found at the scene, but no firearm has yet been recovered.

Nevhuhulwi added, “According to information at hand, the victim is an employee at this residence and has been taken to hospital.”

Police sources said Mugabe allegedly locked himself inside the house for about two hours before officers were able to detain him and another individual for questioning. A multidisciplinary team, including K-9 units and forensic investigators, later returned to the property to continue searching for the weapon.

“The K9 unit, Bramley station detectives and Forensic Crime Scene Management are processing the scene,” Nevhuhulwi said.

Speaking to SABC, a man identifying himself as “Batista,” who said he is part of the family’s private security team, said he had received a call requesting assistance. He also expressed frustration after being denied entry to the Hyde Park property.

Bellarmine Chatunga Mugabe is the third child of the late Robert Mugabe and his second wife, Grace Mugabe. Robert Mugabe ruled Zimbabwe from 1980 until he was removed from office in 2017.