South African Police Probe Allegations Linking Zuma’s Daughter to Recruitment for Russian Mercenaries
South African authorities have opened an investigation into claims that Duduzile Zuma Sambudla, a daughter of former president Jacob Zuma, may have played a role in recruiting South African men to join Russian mercenary forces involved in the war in Ukraine. Police confirmed on Sunday that the allegations are being examined following a formal affidavit submitted earlier this month.
The accusations were made by one of Zuma Sambudla’s sisters, who approached the authorities with a request for a full inquiry. In her affidavit, she alleged that Zuma Sambudla, along with two other individuals, participated in efforts to entice South African men with promises of job opportunities abroad. According to the document, those who accepted the offers were not taken to legitimate employment posts but were instead handed over to a Russian mercenary group operating in Ukraine.
The presidency announced earlier this month that it had received a request to help rescue seventeen South Africans stranded in the conflict torn Donbas region. Officials said the group had sought emergency assistance to leave the area, although the circumstances of how they arrived there remain unclear. The affidavit claims that the seventeen men were among those allegedly recruited under false pretences.
Duduzile Zuma Sambudla, who serves as a member of parliament for her father’s Mkhonto we Sizwe party, has previously been a vocal supporter of Russia on social media. However, she has not publicly responded to the specific allegations outlined in the police report. Her political party has also not issued a formal statement addressing the claims.
Police officials say the investigation is still at an early stage and will involve gathering testimony, reviewing the affidavit and determining whether criminal charges may be warranted. They stressed that the inquiry does not imply guilt and that the purpose is to establish whether the recruitment claims have credible grounds.
The situation has drawn public attention in South Africa, where concerns have grown about citizens being targeted for foreign military involvement. Analysts note that the ongoing war in Ukraine has created opportunities for private military groups to recruit internationally, often using misleading job offers to attract vulnerable individuals. Governments around the world have issued warnings urging citizens not to accept suspicious employment opportunities abroad.
South Africa’s foreign ministry has previously expressed worry over nationals ending up in conflict zones without official clearance. The ministry confirmed it is monitoring the case of the seventeen stranded individuals and is working with international partners to ensure their safe return. Officials have urged the public to verify any overseas job offers through recognised channels to avoid being drawn into dangerous situations.
As the investigation continues, the allegations against Zuma Sambudla add a new political dimension to a case already sensitive due to South Africa’s diplomatic stance on the Ukraine conflict. The outcome of the inquiry could have broader implications for political accountability, foreign recruitment networks and the safety of South African citizens abroad.
