Chatunga Bellarmine Mugabe, the son of former Zimbabwean President Robert Mugabe, has been arrested following an alleged violent altercation with police at a roadblock near Beitbridge. The incident, which occurred in the early hours of the morning, has once again thrust the Mugabe family into the spotlight.
According to sources close to the situation, Chatunga arrived at the Bubi roadblock, approximately 80 kilometers north of Beitbridge, at around 6:00 AM. He was reportedly a passenger in a vehicle driven by a Chinese national. Witnesses claim that Mugabe became agitated when police officers requested vehicle documentation and identification.
The situation quickly escalated, with Mugabe allegedly shouting at the officers, “You are delaying us, do you know who I am?” In a shocking turn of events, he is accused of physically assaulting a member of the Support Unit, grabbing the officer by the collar and tearing off his shirt buttons.
Chief Superintendent Mesuli Ncube, the officer commanding Beitbridge Police District, confirmed the arrest but stated he did not have detailed information about the incident. “I have just heard he was arrested, but I am not in the office,” Ncube said in a brief interview.
The confrontation took a more serious turn when Mugabe allegedly brandished an Okapi knife. However, police officers on the scene managed to subdue him and effect the arrest. He was subsequently taken to Beitbridge Rural Police Station for further processing.
Chatunga Mugabe now faces potential charges of violent conduct, resisting arrest, and assault on a police officer. The incident has raised questions about the conduct of individuals with high-profile family connections and the challenges faced by law enforcement in such situations.
This is not the first time the younger Mugabe has found himself in the public eye for controversial reasons. As the second son of the late Robert Mugabe, Chatunga has lived much of his life under intense scrutiny. His siblings include older brother Robert Jr. and sister Bona, named after their paternal grandmother.
The arrest of Chatunga Mugabe comes at a time when Zimbabwe continues to grapple with the legacy of his father’s long rule. It serves as a reminder of the ongoing tensions and complexities in the country’s political and social landscape.
As the case unfolds, many will be watching closely to see how the Zimbabwean justice system handles this high-profile arrest. The incident also raises broader questions about privilege, accountability, and the rule of law in contemporary Zimbabwe.
Authorities have not yet released information about potential court appearances or bail conditions. The Mugabe family has not issued any statement regarding the incident at this time.
