Police have seized a luxury German vehicle and launched a high-level investigation after Bellarmine Chatunga Mugabe, the son of former Zimbabwean president Robert Mugabe, allegedly shot his employee at his Hyde Park residence in Johannesburg on Thursday night.
Mugabe and another suspect were arrested and charged with attempted murder at the Bramley Police Station. They are expected to appear in the Alexandra Magistrate’s Court.
Sirens, a Seized BMW, and a Pool Search
Witnesses described a dramatic police operation at the upmarket property. Officers recovered a black BMW fitted with police sirens and emergency lights, which was immediately confiscated.
Authorities believe the vehicle was originally orange before being resprayed black — allegedly to resemble an unmarked law-enforcement vehicle.
The suspects were detained before Gauteng Deputy Provincial Commissioner for Crime Detection, Major General Mbuso Khumalo, returned to the scene with investigators.
In a further twist, police divers and Emergency Management Services rescue teams searched a murky swimming pool on the property for the firearm believed to have been used in the shooting.
What Allegedly Happened
Sources told Newsnote the investigation say the incident followed a confrontation between Mugabe and his employee, reportedly after the worker had been absent for several days. The employee was shot during the altercation and rushed for medical treatment. Authorities have not released details about his condition.
Police have deployed sniffer dogs and specialist units, underscoring the sensitivity and high-profile nature of the case.
Hyde Park: Johannesburg’s Elite Enclave
Hyde Park, located north of Johannesburg’s financial hub Sandton, is one of South Africa’s most exclusive suburbs. Known for its high security, gated mansions, and diplomatic residences, the area attracts business leaders, foreign diplomats, and celebrities.
High-profile figures linked to the broader Sandton and Hyde Park area over the years include business tycoon Patrice Motsepe, media personality Bonang Matheba, and members of prominent diplomatic and business communities.
Mugabe is one house away from Businessman Hangwani Maumela, who has been linked to the Tembisa Hospital R2 billion tender scandal.
President Cyril Ramaphosa, EFF leader Julius Malema, alleged underworld kingpin Cat Matlala are some of the prominent who stay in this area.
Ramaphosa protection unit also passed while the scene was still active late on Thursday.
The suburb is also home to the upscale Hyde Park Corner, a luxury retail destination.
Mugabe’s Son and Previous Controversies
Bellarmine Chatunga Mugabe has previously made headlines for controversial behavior both in Zimbabwe and South Africa.
Mugabe family reportedly called the lawyers to check if they can come to court on Friday but they are not hopeful the pair would appear.
In 2017, he reportedly faced assault allegations in Johannesburg after an altercation at a hotel. Around the same period, he drew public outrage on social media after posting images of luxury shopping and lavish spending while Zimbabwe faced economic hardship.
He is the son of Robert Mugabe and Zimbabwe’s former first lady, Grace Mugabe, both polarizing figures in Zimbabwe’s political history.
What Happens Next
The suspects are expected to appear in court soon as investigations continue. Authorities are still searching for the firearm believed to have been used in the shooting and are examining the seized vehicle as part of the probe.
Police say more charges could be added as the investigation unfolds.
