South African police have opened an investigation into Duduzile Zuma-Sambudla. She is the daughter of former President Jacob Zuma. Authorities are probing allegations that she recruited men to fight for Russia in Ukraine.
Police are also investigating two other suspects. They allegedly helped lure 17 men overseas for military purposes.
A Family Dispute
The investigation began after a formal complaint from within the Zuma family. Nkosazana Bonganini Zuma-Mncube is the suspect’s half-sister. She asked authorities to look into the matter.
Zuma-Mncube claims that the men were deceived. She alleges that the suspects lured the victims to Russia under false pretenses.
The “Security Job” Trap
The 17 men are between the ages of 20 and 39. According to reports, they believed they were accepting lucrative security jobs.
Instead, the situation changed upon their arrival in Russia. A mercenary group reportedly took custody of them. Consequently, they were forced to fight in the war against Ukraine without their consent.
Distress Calls from the Front
Earlier this month, the South African government received distress calls. The men begged for help to return home.
As a result, an enquiry docket has been opened. The case is now with the Hawks. This is South Africa’s elite police unit responsible for serious crimes.
More Legal Troubles
This investigation adds to Duduzile Zuma-Sambudla’s legal challenges. She is currently a senior lawmaker for her father’s uMkhonto we Sizwe party.
She already faces separate charges. These relate to public violence during the deadly civil unrest in 2021. Her legal team has not yet commented on these new accusations.
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