R250K Silence Claim Emerges In Bellarmine Mugabe Shooting Case

A courtroom in Alexandra has been gripped by fresh claims that money may have been used to keep a key witness quiet in a high-profile shooting case tied to the Mugabe name.

As proceedings continue against Bellarmine Mugabe, the son of late Zimbabwean leader Robert Mugabe, and his co-accused Tobias Matonhodze, new testimony has added another layer to an already complex case.

Payment Allegations Surface In Court

The Alexandra Magistrates Court heard that Sipho Mahlangu, the security guard at the centre of the case, allegedly received R250,000 to remain silent about the incident.

According to the investigating officer, an additional R150,000 was also promised to him, raising questions about possible attempts to interfere with the course of justice.

The revelation came as part of ongoing testimony, with the officer confirming that Mahlangu himself acknowledged receiving the initial payment.

The Hyde Park Shooting

The case stems from a shooting at a residence in Hyde Park, one of Johannesburg’s more affluent suburbs.

Mahlangu was shot twice in the back during the incident, an act that has since formed the basis of attempted murder charges against the accused.

Both Mugabe and Matonhodze were present at the time of the shooting, placing them directly at the scene.

Charges And Court Developments

The two men are facing multiple charges, including attempted murder, defeating the ends of justice and firearm-related offences.

In a separate incident, Mugabe is also accused of pointing what has been described as a toy gun.

Last week, both accused entered guilty pleas to several charges linked to these incidents. They have since asked the court to consider a more lenient outcome, suggesting a suspended sentence or a fine.

Missing Weapon Raises Concerns

One of the more troubling aspects of the case remains unresolved. The firearm allegedly used in the Hyde Park shooting has still not been recovered.

Investigators told the court that both accused have not assisted police in locating the weapon, a factor that could weigh heavily during sentencing.

The investigating officer has urged the court to take a firm stance, arguing that the seriousness of the offence and the circumstances surrounding it warrant a harsher penalty.

What Happens Next

The matter has been postponed to 29 April, when the court is expected to decide on sentencing.

Beyond the legal arguments, the case has sparked wider conversation about accountability, influence and the integrity of the justice system, especially when high-profile names are involved.

For now, the focus shifts to the next court date, where the outcome could send a strong message about how such cases are handled in South Africa’s courts.