Robert Mugabe’s son faces deportation from South Africa after firearm conviction

Bellarmine Chatunga Mugabe, the son of late former Zimbabwean President Robert Mugabe, has been ordered to leave South Africa after being found guilty of firearm-related and immigration offences.

A South African court handed down the ruling following a plea agreement linked to a February 2026 incident in Johannesburg, where Mugabe was arrested after a shooting that injured a worker at a private residence.

While he was not convicted of attempted murder, Mugabe pleaded guilty to pointing an object resembling a firearm in a threatening manner and violating immigration laws.

The court imposed a fine of 600,000 rand (approximately $32,000) and ordered his immediate deportation to Zimbabwe once all legal processes are completed. Authorities also directed that he be escorted by police during the deportation procedure.

Mugabe’s co-accused faced more serious charges, including attempted murder, and was sentenced to prison before also being set for deportation after serving the term.

The case stems from a February incident in which a worker was shot and injured at a private property in Johannesburg. The firearm used has not yet been recovered.

Compensation was reportedly paid to the injured worker as part of plea discussions.

The ruling adds to a series of legal controversies involving members of the Mugabe family over the years.

South African authorities said deportation procedures will be carried out according to standard immigration enforcement protocols.