Bellarmine Mugabe, the youngest son of Zimbabwe’s late former president Robert Mugabe, has pleaded guilty to charges of pointing a firearm and residing illegally in South Africa.
The 28-year-old entered his plea in a court in Alexandra, Johannesburg, following his arrest in February in connection with the shooting of a 23-year-old man at his residence in the upscale Hyde Park area.
Mugabe was arrested alongside co-accused Tobias Matonhodze, who also appeared in court and pleaded guilty to multiple charges, including attempted murder, defeating the ends of justice, illegal immigration, and possession of ammunition.
During proceedings, Mugabe—who had initially faced an attempted murder charge—confirmed his understanding of the charges before entering his plea. Prosecutors later dropped the attempted murder charge against him after Matonhodze admitted to firing the weapon.
A spokesperson for the National Prosecuting Authority said investigations initially could not determine who discharged the firearm, but Matonhodze’s admission clarified the circumstances surrounding the shooting.
The incident occurred on February 19, when police were called to Mugabe’s residence following reports of gunfire. According to prosecutors, the shooting followed a dispute involving the two accused and the victim, believed to be a security guard.
The victim was reportedly shot twice in the back while attempting to flee the property and was rushed to hospital in critical condition.
Authorities who searched the residence have yet to recover the firearm used in the attack.
Lawyers representing both men told the court they are willing to return to Zimbabwe at their own expense if they are not handed custodial sentences.
Sentencing has been adjourned until April 24, as the court considers the outcome of the case.
