Hawks Investigate Duduzile Zuma-Sambudla Over Alleged Recruitment of South Africans to Ukraine

Allegations Spark Serious Investigation

The Hawks have confirmed that they are investigating Duduzile Zuma-Sambudla after shocking allegations surfaced that 17 South African men, mostly from KwaZulu-Natal, were lured into the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict under false pretences.

The complaint was lodged by former president Jacob Zuma’s eldest daughter, Nkosazana Bonganini Zuma Mncube, who claims some of those affected are her own family members. The men are reportedly in dire conditions and desperate to return home.

The Case Moves to the Hawks

National SAPS spokesperson Brigadier Athlenda Mathe explained that the matter has been escalated to the Crimes Against the State (CATS) unit of the Hawks for further investigation.

“I can confirm that Zuma-Mncube presented herself to the Sandton police station, urging the state to investigate three individuals whom she accused of luring 17 South African men to Russia under false pretences. An enquiry docket has been registered, and the matter will now be handled by the Hawks,” Mathe said.

Mathe added that preliminary investigations are ongoing, and charges will be clarified once the investigation is complete.

Family Tensions and Public Appeals

The allegations have caused visible strain within the Zuma family. Nkosazana Zuma Mncube has been vocal, calling for urgent diplomatic intervention to secure the safe return of the men.

“They are desperate to come home and scared for their lives. Their families are in contact with them,” said Thuthu Zuma, confirming Nkosazana’s statement and clarifying the family connection.

In a public statement, Nkosazana Zuma Mncube called on South Africans to exercise caution with overseas opportunities, particularly those involving conflict zones. She cited potential violations of the Preventing and Combating of Trafficking in Persons Act, the Regulations of Foreign Military Assistance Act, and common law fraud.

“I urge the South African government to expedite all diplomatic efforts to secure the immediate and safe return of our citizens. Furthermore, I call on all South Africans to be vigilant and not fall prey to individuals offering seemingly too good to be true opportunities abroad,” she said.

Political and Public Fallout

Duduzile Zuma-Sambudla, a member of Parliament with the MK Party, has not responded to requests for comment. The party’s national spokesperson, Nhlamulo Ndlhela, also had not provided a statement by publication time, leaving questions around her role unresolved.

Social media has reacted with concern and outrage, with citizens questioning how South Africans could end up in a foreign conflict and what measures are in place to prevent such recruitment schemes.

The Next Steps

The Hawks are expected to investigate the allegations thoroughly, with both the family and the public awaiting clarity on the legal and diplomatic outcomes. Meanwhile, the case has spotlighted the risks South Africans may face abroad, especially when targeted by misleading recruitment schemes.

{Source: IOL}

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