Tobias Matonhodze Pleads Guilty To Attempted Murder In Chatunga Mugabe Case

Tobias Matonhodze Pleads Guilty To Attempted Murder In Mugabe Case

Chatunga Bellarmine Mugabe has admitted to a firearm-related offence, while his co-accused, Tobias Matonhodze, has taken responsibility for attempted murder in a case stemming from a February 2026 shooting incident in Johannesburg.

The two appeared at the Alexandra Regional Court on Friday, 17 April 2026, following their arrest in March. The matter relates to a shooting at a Hyde Park residence, where a gardener was injured.

Mugabe Pleads Guilty To Firearm And Immigration Charges

During proceedings, Chatunga Bellarmine Mugabe pleaded guilty to pointing a firearm and contravening South Africa’s immigration laws. He also indicated a willingness to accept deportation.

SABC News confirmed the development during its court coverage.

“Bellarmine Mugabe has pleaded guilty to pointing a firearm and contravening South Africa’s immigration laws,” SABC News reported on 17 April 2026.

Mugabe had initially faced additional charges, including attempted murder. However, his plea relates specifically to the firearm offence and immigration violations.

The firearm allegedly used during the incident has not been recovered, and this remains a key issue in the case.

Tobias Matonhodze Admits Attempted Murder

Co-accused Tobias Matonhodze entered a guilty plea to attempted murder, as well as defeating the ends of justice, illegal immigration, and possession of ammunition.

His plea places responsibility for the most serious charge in the case on him.

SABC News confirmed the extent of his admissions.

“His co-accused, Tobias Matonhodze, pleaded guilty to attempted murder, defeating ends of justice, illegal immigration, and possession of ammunition.”

Both men have been in custody since February 2026, following their arrest shortly after the February shooting.

Hyde Park Shooting Incident Under Scrutiny

The charges stem from an incident at a Hyde Park residence in Johannesburg in February 2026, where a gardener was reportedly shot and injured.

The case has drawn attention due to Mugabe’s profile as the son of former Zimbabwean president Robert Mugabe.

Further proceedings are expected as the court process continues following the guilty pleas.