Former President Robert Mugabe’s son arrested for brandishing knife and assaulting a policeman

Chatunga Bellarmine Mugabe, the son of the late former Zimbabwean President Robert Mugabe, has been arrested in Beitbridge for allegedly assaulting a police officer.

The incident occurred in Bubi, approximately 80 kilometers north of the border town, at a roadblock early in the morning.

According to reports from NewsDay, the altercation took place around 6:00 a.m. when Chatunga, who was being driven by a Chinese driver, arrived at the roadblock. The confrontation began when police officers requested vehicle documents, prompting Chatunga to become agitated.

“He started shouting at the police, saying, ‘You are delaying us, do you know who I am?’” sources revealed. During the confrontation, Chatunga reportedly grabbed a Support Unit officer by the collar, tearing off his shirt buttons. He is also alleged to have brandished an Okapi knife before being subdued and arrested by the police.

Chief Superintendent Mesuli Ncube, the officer commanding Beitbridge Police District, confirmed Chatunga’s arrest but noted that he had limited details regarding the case. “I have just heard he was arrested, but I am not in the office,” Ncube stated.

This incident adds to Chatunga Mugabe’s history of legal troubles. In 2023, he and his friend Tatenda Chinyuku were arrested for assaulting Lazarus Dairamanzi and causing damage to his Nissan NP300 by smashing its window. The duo were charged with assault and malicious damage to property.

Additionally, Chatunga’s older brother, Robert Junior, faced legal issues last year in February. He was arrested following an incident at a party where he displayed erratic behaviour, smashing cars and other properties after a dispute with the party host.