South African ex-president’s daughter recruited men to fight for Russia

JOHANNESBURG, South Africa (MNTV) — South African authorities have launched an investigation into allegations that Duduzile Zuma, daughter of former president Jacob Zuma, helped recruit young men for Russia’s war effort after they were allegedly misled into believing they were signing up for a security training program.

According to accounts reported by media outlets and verified by family members, about 20 men from South Africa and Botswana traveled to Russia in July after being promised employment as security personnel. 

Families say the recruits instead signed military-style contracts written in Russian and were later transported to Russian-controlled areas near the front lines in Ukraine.

Some relatives told local reporters they lost contact with the men shortly after they arrived. WhatsApp messages linked to Zuma show her assuring relatives that the recruits would not be deployed to combat and that she would intervene if they faced danger.

Zuma, a member of parliament for the uMkhonto weSizwe Party, has previously drawn scrutiny for her public support of Russian President Vladimir Putin. She is also currently facing separate treason charges related to unrest following her father’s 2021 imprisonment.

South African law prohibits citizens from engaging in foreign mercenary activity.

Officials said the government is working to verify the men’s whereabouts and determine whether criminal charges will be filed.

The case has heightened political tensions within the Zuma family. Another daughter, Nkosazana Zuma-Mcube, has filed a criminal complaint accusing Duduzile of trafficking and fraud connected to the alleged recruitment scheme.

Authorities say efforts are underway to coordinate with foreign governments to secure the safe return of the affected men.