The son of Zimbabwe's late former President Robert Mugabe, Robert Mugabe Jr., found himself in hot water this week, appearing in a Harare court on drug possession charges. The 33-year-old was reportedly apprehended on Wednesday morning after driving against traffic on a one-way street.
According to court documents, police discovered two small sachets of cannabis in a black sling bag Mugabe Jr. was carrying. Following the initial arrest, police stated that five other individuals allegedly linked to Mugabe Jr. in a “syndicate” were also taken into custody.
Mugabe Jr.'s legal team disputes the police's version of events. Lawyer Ashiel Mugiya claims the drugs were found in a car with three other occupants and that the amount of cannabis was significantly less than reported – 0.02g versus the police's claim of 2g with a street value of $30 (£22).
Robert Mugabe Jr. appeared in court wearing joggers and a red cap, seemingly occupied with his phone as he was escorted inside. He was surrounded by people but not handcuffed. The court has remanded him in custody pending a bail ruling scheduled for Friday.
Police reported finding 25 sachets of marijuana and six ecstasy pills on the alleged syndicate members. They have stated that investigations are ongoing.
This isn't the first time Mugabe Jr. has faced legal trouble. In 2023, he was arrested for allegedly damaging property and spitting on a police officer at a party in Harare. He was later released after reaching an out-of-court settlement with the complainant.
The late former President Robert Mugabe, who passed away in 2019, led Zimbabwe for 37 years before being forced to resign in 2017. This latest incident involving his son has once again put the Mugabe family in the spotlight.
Key Details:
- Robert Mugabe Jr. arrested for drug possession.
- Dispute over the amount of cannabis found.
- Five others allegedly linked to Mugabe Jr. also arrested.
- Mugabe Jr. remanded in custody pending bail ruling.
What's Next?
The bail hearing on Friday will be a crucial development in this case. The outcome will determine whether Robert Mugabe Jr. will remain in custody or be released pending further investigation.