Investigating Officer Denies Facilitating Compensation for Shooting Victim in Bellarmine Mugabe Case

The investigating officer in the Bellarmine Mugabe case denies facilitating victim compensation, while the state seeks the missing firearm used in the Hyde Park shooting.

By: AXL Media

Published: Apr 18, 2026, 5:44 AM EDT

Source: Information for this report was sourced from Eyewitness News

Denials of Institutional Involvement in Settlements

The attempted murder trial involving Bellarmine Mugabe, son of the late Zimbabwean President Robert Mugabe, took a sharp turn at the Alexandra Magistrate's Court as the investigating officer refuted claims of a private settlement. Mugabe’s legal team had suggested that a compensation payment was made to the victim with the prior knowledge and facilitation of Colonel CJ Raj. However, the Colonel has officially denied any role in the arrangement, creating a significant discrepancy between the defense's narrative and official police records.

Guilty Pleas and the Search for the Missing Firearm

Both Bellarmine Mugabe (29) and his co-accused, Thobias Matonhodze (32), have entered guilty pleas regarding the shooting incident that occurred at a Hyde Park residence in February. Despite these pleas, the state maintains a firm stance due to the accused's refusal to disclose the location of the weapon. Colonel Raj pointed out that while the pair admit to being present when the victim was injured, their continued silence regarding the firearm suggests a lack of genuine remorse and a refusal to fully assist the ongoing investigation.

Differing Degrees of Culpability

The legal strategies for the two men differ based on the severity of their specific charges. Mugabe has admitted to being in South Africa illegally and to pointing a firearm, though his defense maintains the object used was merely a toy gun. In contrast, Matonhodze has pleaded guilty to far more serious offenses, including attempted murder and defeating the ends of justice. Both men have also admitted to illegal entry into the country, complicating their legal standing as foreign nationals.