South African authorities are investigating serious allegations against Duduzile Zuma-Sambudla, daughter of former President Jacob Zuma, for allegedly deceiving 17 men into fighting in Russia’s war with Ukraine. According to a police affidavit filed by her sister, Nkosazana Bonganini Zuma-Mncube, Zuma-Sambudla and two others allegedly lured the men under the false pretense of providing security training in Russia. The affidavit claims the men were handed over to a Russian mercenary group and forced into combat, with eight of the victims reportedly being family members of the sisters. Police spokesperson Athlenda Mathe stated that charges are pending a thorough investigation. South Africa’s Foreign Minister, Ronald Lamola, confirmed diplomatic efforts are underway to repatriate the men, who are reportedly trapped in Ukraine’s Donbas region. The government earlier revealed it had received distress calls from the men, aged 20 to 39, who were allegedly recruited under the guise of lucrative employment contracts. This case highlights broader accusations against Russia for recruiting foreign nationals, including women from South Africa and other African countries, through deceptive job offers. Under South African law, it is illegal for citizens to provide military assistance to foreign governments without authorization. Zuma-Sambudla, a member of parliament for the MK Party founded by her father, is already on trial for unrelated charges linked to the 2021 riots in South Africa. Neither she nor the MK Party responded to requests for comment.
Daughter of ex-South African leader Zuma is accused of luring men to fight in Russia-Ukraine war
