Daughter of Former South African President Under Police Investigation
South African authorities have initiated a formal police investigation into Duduzile Zuma-Sambudla, the daughter of former president Jacob Zuma, following serious allegations that she recruited seventeen men to fight in Russia's war against Ukraine.
The probe was launched after an affidavit submitted by Zuma-Sambudla's own sister claimed the men were deceived with promises of security training in Russia, only to be forced into joining a Russian mercenary group upon arrival.
Family Members Among Those Allegedly Deceived
The court document reveals a particularly disturbing detail: eight of the seventeen men allegedly targeted are reported to be members of the sisters' extended family.
South Africa's Foreign Minister, Ronald Lamola, confirmed that diplomatic channels are actively being used with both Russia and Ukraine in an effort to repatriate the men, who have reportedly made distress calls from the conflict-ridden Donbas region.
Legal Ramifications and Ongoing Probe
Under South African law, it is illegal for citizens to offer military assistance or join foreign armies without explicit authorisation from the government.
While the investigation is ongoing, police have not yet determined what specific charges might be brought against Zuma-Sambudla in connection with these serious allegations.
