Hawks say unclear if former Zuma-Sambudla linked to arrest of five Russian military recruitment suspects

The Hawks say it's unclear whether former MK Party MP Duduzile Zuma-Sambudla is linked to the arrest of five people on allegations of luring citizens to fight in the Russia-Ukraine war.

The group appeared in the Kempton Park Magistrate's court on Monday following their arrest at OR Tambo International Airport over the weekend, just moments before they were due to board a flight to Russia.

39-year-old Nonkululeko Mantula, an SABC broadcaster, and 46-year-old Xolani Ntuli are accused of recruiting three young men to join the russian frontlines.

Zuma-Sambudla is also accused of luring 17 other men who are already in Russia, under false pretences, to fight in the conflict.

READ: Case against 5 suspects arrested in Russian military recruitment case postponed

With their heads bowed and seemingly trying to avoid the flashing cameras, the five suspects entered the dock in a courtroom packed to capacity.

SAFMbroadcaster Mantula, who wore an African print doek that matched her dress, allegedly played a key role in recruiting Thulani Mazibuko, Sphamandla Tshabalala, and Sifiso Mabena, all of whom are under the age of 24.

With former president Jacob Zuma's daughter, Duduzile, also accused of luring 17 more men to Russia, questions have arisen about whether she is connected to the five who were arrested just before boarding their flight.

In answering this question, Hawks spokesperson Katlego Mogale said only time will tell.

"The case against Duduzile Zuma-Sambudla is separate, but we don't rule out the possibility as the investigations continue, these two cases might merge."

The five suspects will return to court on Monday for bail proceedings.