The Democratic Alliance (DA) has laid criminal charges against uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) Party Member of Parliament, Duduzile Zuma-Sambudla. The charges relate to her alleged role in a scheme that reportedly lured South African men to Russia.
They were allegedly sent to fight in the war against Ukraine under false pretences. The DA filed the case at the Cape Town Police Station on Thursday. The party accuses Zuma-Sambudla of human trafficking and violating the Foreign Military Assistance Act.
The DA has criticised the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (Dirco) for its apparent silence on the matter. However, Dirco spokesperson Chrispin Phiri stated the matter is under investigation by the Hawks.
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Families claim deception
Family members of the men claim they were deceived. The men, who travelled to Russia on 8 July, were allegedly promised bodyguard training for top MK Party officials. One man’s brother told the Mail & Guardian that they were promised jobs upon their return to South Africa.
The men, all with basic firearm experience, underwent about two weeks of training. They were then told they would be deployed into combat. This contradicted assurances they allegedly received from Zuma-Sambudla.
According to WhatsApp messages, the men’s phones and bank cards were confiscated upon arrival. When they raised concerns about being sent to the frontline, Zuma-Sambudla allegedly dismissed their fears. She reportedly told them it was part of their “psychological training”.
This Russian recruitment scandal has also caused a rift in the Zuma family. Nkosazana Bonganini Zuma-Mncube, Zuma-Sambudla’s sister, opened a case against her. She accused her sister and two associates, Siphokazi Xuma and Blessing Khoza, of luring the men under false pretences.
The Hawks have confirmed they are investigating the matter. The probe will determine if any criminality, such as human trafficking or fraud, occurred.
The presidency has also ordered an investigation. It stated that it is illegal for citizens to provide foreign military assistance without government authorisation. Ukraine’s Ambassador to South Africa, Olexander Scherba, confirmed that prominent South Africans were involved in therecruitment effort. The government is now working through diplomatic channels to secure the men’s return.
