Duduzile Zuma-Sambudla, daughter of ex-President Jacob Zuma, has resigned as a Member of Parliament amidst allegations of deceiving South African men into fighting for Russia in Ukraine. The accusations claim she lured 17 men under false pretenses to become mercenaries in the war-torn region.
Zuma-Sambudla, who joined uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) party last year, maintains in an affidavit that she believed the men were travelling to Russia for legitimate training. However, families of the recruited men are demanding accountability and the safe return of their loved ones.
One man, identified as Sipho for his safety, sent desperate voice notes detailing the horrors he and others are experiencing in Ukraine. His brother, Xolani, shared these messages with the BBC, highlighting the fear and uncertainty Sipho faces daily in a war zone.
Xolani believes Zuma-Sambudla's resignation is a mere attempt to salvage her father's party's reputation, now led by Jacob Zuma. The families are seeking more than just a resignation; they want the safe return of the men allegedly tricked into fighting for Russia.
Sipho's voice notes reveal he was allegedly recruited by Zuma-Sambudla and another individual, who also provided flight tickets to Russia. Meanwhile, in a separate case, five suspects appeared in the Kempton Park magistrate's court, accused of violating the Regulation of Foreign Military Assistance Act. The case has been postponed for a formal bail application.
These suspects were apprehended at OR Tambo International Airport following a tip-off, preventing them from boarding a flight to Russia via the UAE. Authorities suspect a South African woman facilitated the recruitment and travel of the group to join the Russian Federation military. Investigations are ongoing, involving local and international intelligence partners, to uncover the full extent of the network and potential security threats.
The Allegations Against Duduzile Zuma-Sambudla
- Deceiving South African men into fighting in Ukraine as mercenaries.
- Providing false pretenses about "lawful" training in Russia.
- Families demanding accountability and safe return of their loved ones.
Ongoing Investigations
Authorities are working diligently to uncover the full scope of the recruitment network and assess any potential security risks. The case remains a developing story, and updates will be provided as more information becomes available.