South African authorities have launched a criminal investigation into Duduzile Zuma-Sambudla, daughter of former President Jacob Zuma, following allegations she recruited and deceived 17 South African men into joining Russian forces in the Ukraine conflict. The probe began after Zuma-Sambudla’s stepsister, Nkosazana Bonganini Zuma-Mncube, filed an affidavit accusing her of luring the men to Russia under the guise of lucrative job contracts and training as bodyguards for the MK party, only for them to be handed over to a Russian mercenary organization and sent to fight in Donbas without their consent.
South African law strictly prohibits citizens from participating in foreign wars without explicit government permission. Presidency spokespersons revealed that all 17 men, aged 20–39, have sent distress signals from Ukraine, appealing for urgent help to return home. Eight of the men are relatives of Zuma-Mncube, who called for accelerated diplomatic efforts to secure their safe return.
Police investigations are ongoing and include several accomplices. Zuma-Sambudla is also facing trial for allegedly inciting violence during South Africa’s 2021 riots. She has not yet publicly commented on the Ukraine-related allegations. The shocking case has highlighted grave concerns about recruitment, human trafficking, and South Africa’s role in global conflicts.