18 South Africans 'lured' to fight for Russia in Ukraine - Duduzile Zuma's docket opened

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Vicky Stark

25 November 2025 | 12:53

The men were reportedly told they were going for bodyguard training but are now fighting on the frontlines.

18 South Africans 'lured' to fight for Russia in Ukraine - Duduzile Zuma's docket opened

Duduzile Zuma-Sambudla. Picture: AFP

The Hawks have confirmed that a docket has been opened to look into allegations made by former president Jacob Zuma's daughter, Duduzile Zuma-Sambudla.
This after her half-sister Nkosazana Bonganini Zuma-Mncube filed an affidavit at Sandton Police Station asking for an investigation into allegations that Zuma-Sambudla had lured 18, mainly South African men, overseas to fight in Russia's war against Ukraine.
The men were reportedly told they were going for bodyguard training but are now fighting on the frontlines.
Hawks spokesperson, Brigadier Nomthandazo Mbambo, confirmed that they now have two dockets, one for each of the sisters.
"One was filed by Duduzile Zuma yesterday. Both will be investigated jointly so as to ensure a comprehensive and coordinated approach."
Mbambo said the investigation was still at an early stage.
"So there is nothing much to say at this stage except that we are busy taking statements from witnesses to get clarity on this matter. And also working with other government entities that are entrusted with international relations."
This includes the Department of International Relations and Cooperation, Home Affairs, Interpol and intelligence, he said.
News24 has spoken to some of the men who are desperate to come home. The online news site said that Zuma-Mncube claimed in a statement that eight of the men were family members.
To listen to Mbambo's full discussion with 702 and CapeTalk's Mandy Wiener click below:
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