Chatunga and Cousin Plead Guilty in Johannesburg Shooting Case

Bellarmine Chatunga Mugabe and his cousin Tobias Matonhodze have pleaded guilty to multiple criminal charges stemming from a shooting incident at a Johannesburg residence earlier this year.

The pair appeared before the Alexandra Magistrate’s Court on Friday, where they formally admitted guilt in connection with a February shooting at a Hyde Park property that left a 23-year-old employee with a non-fatal gunshot wound.

Mugabe pleaded guilty to contravening South Africa’s Firearms Control Act by pointing a firearm at the victim, as well as violating immigration laws by residing in the country illegally. Matonhodze, meanwhile, admitted to attempted murder, defeating the ends of justice, possession of an illegal firearm, and breaching immigration regulations.

The firearm used in the incident has not yet been recovered, a factor that remains central to the case. Authorities allege the weapon was deliberately concealed.

In mitigation, the defence told the court that both men have compensated the victim and are willing to provide further assistance. They have also indicated their readiness to accept deportation to Zimbabwe and to cover the costs of their return.

Sentencing has been postponed to 25 April, with the court expected to weigh the accused’s cooperation, including whether they disclose the whereabouts of the missing firearm.

The case traces back to 19 February, when both men were arrested following the shooting. Initial reports indicated the victim was employed as a gardener at the Hyde Park residence. The accused later withdrew their bail applications in March, opting instead to pursue a plea agreement with the state.

During their early detention, police reported that Mugabe required medical attention after collapsing twice in custody. There were also unconfirmed reports that his mother, Grace Mugabe, had considered travelling to South Africa to visit him despite potential legal risks.

The outcome of the sentencing hearing is expected to clarify whether deportation will accompany custodial or financial penalties.