Bellarmine Mugabe, son of former Zimbabwean president Robert Mugabe, is set to be deported from South Africa following a ruling by the Alexandra Magistrate’s Court.
The 29-year-old, a first-time offender, was fined R600,000 or sentenced to three and a half years in prison after pleading guilty to pointing an object resembling a firearm and violating immigration laws.
His co-accused, Tobias Matonhodze, received an effective three-year prison sentence after being convicted on multiple charges, including attempted murder and unlawful possession of a firearm and ammunition.
The case relates to a shooting incident that took place at a Hyde Park residence earlier this year.
In delivering judgment, Magistrate Renier Boshoff said the court considered several factors, including the conduct of the victim, who did not cooperate with investigators and had reportedly received R400,000. The court noted this significantly weakened the State’s case.
Boshoff also took into account that both accused had indicated early on their intention to plead guilty and had shown remorse, describing their conduct as aligned with principles of restorative justice.
In addition to the financial penalty, the court ordered Mugabe’s immediate deportation to Zimbabwe under police supervision.
Investigating officer Raj Ramchunder has been assigned to escort him to OR Tambo International Airport, where he will depart the country.
Mugabe’s legal team is currently facilitating payment of the fine and coordinating travel arrangements to ensure compliance with the court order.
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