A warrant of arrest has been issued for Chatunga Bellamine Mugabe, the 27-year-old son of the late former President Robert Mugabe after he failed to appear in court on Tuesday. The warrant, authorized by Beitbridge Magistrate Miss Vavariro Gavi, comes amid ongoing legal troubles for Chatunga, who faces charges of disorderly conduct and possession of a prohibited knife.
The legal issues stem from an incident on August 30th at a security checkpoint near Beitbridge. Chatunga, who was traveling in a South Africa-registered Range Rover, was allegedly agitated when police requested his friend’s passport. Reports indicate that he became disruptive, manhandling a police officer and shouting that he was late for a wedding in Harare. During the confrontation, a prohibited flick knife was discovered in his possession, leading to an additional charge.
Chatunga was previously granted bail following his initial court appearance in August. However, his recent court absence led to the issuance of the arrest warrant. His lawyer, Muchihwande Forbes Sithole, explained that the warrant was an administrative formality due to Chatunga’s hospitalization. “He is currently undergoing throat surgery in Harare and is expected to be released by Friday. We anticipate that he will be able to report to court on Monday, where we will request a warning, caution, and discharge,” Sithole said.
The incident has sparked discussions about potential preferential treatment for Chatunga due to his family’s high-profile status. The public and media are closely following the case, which continues to attract attention due to its connection to the Mugabe family legacy.
Chatunga has denied a social media post that purportedly included an apology to President Emmerson Mnangagwa, Home Affairs Minister Kazembe Kazembe, and Police Commissioner-General Godwin Matanga. The post, which was widely circulated, was later disavowed by Chatunga’s representatives.
In other news – Papa G to be buried in Soweto this weekend
Darlington “Papa G” Michaels, a beloved star of the popular South African soap opera Isidingo, will be laid to rest in his Soweto hometown this weekend. The actor, whose real name was Teboho Ndarana, passed away at the age of 78 on Friday, September 13, at Chris Hani Baragwanath Hospital after a brief illness.
Michaels’ family has announced that his memorial service will take place at the Soweto Theatre in Jabulani on Thursday, September 19, starting at noon. The following day, his funeral will be held at Uncle Tom’s Community Centre in Orlando West, beginning at 9 a.m. The funeral procession will then proceed to Westpark Cemetery for the burial. Read More
