South African officials are holding discussions with Russia to secure the safe return of 17 South African men who were drawn into fighting in Ukraine.
Authorities say the men were allegedly misled into joining the Russian military by Duduzile Zuma-Sambudla, the daughter of former president Jacob Zuma.
According to officials, the group, which also included two citizens from Botswana was recruited in July under false pretences. They were reportedly promised either training as bodyguards for Zuma’s political party, uMkhonto weSizwe, or placement in a personal development programme. Instead, they were absorbed into the Russian armed forces and deployed to frontline combat zones.
Vincent Magwenya, spokesperson for President Cyril Ramaphosa, described the situation as extremely delicate. “These young men are facing serious danger. We are engaging authorities in both Russia and Ukraine to explore every possible option to bring them back home safely,” he said during a media briefing.
Magwenya noted that talks are largely centred on Russian officials, as the men appear to have been integrated into Russian military operations. “This matter has the government’s full and urgent attention,” he said. Russia’s embassy in South Africa has yet to respond to requests for comment.
The issue came to public attention after the men contacted South African authorities in distress on 6 November. Later that month, another of Zuma’s daughters, Nkosazana Zuma-Mncube, opened a police case accusing Zuma-Sambudla and two other individuals of deceiving the recruits. Eight of those taken to Russia were reportedly members of her own family.
Zuma-Sambudla has also filed a police report, saying she was herself misled by one of the accused, Blessing Khoza, into believing the trip involved a legitimate paramilitary training course. Attempts to reach Khoza and the second alleged recruiter, Siphokazi Xuma, were unsuccessful.
Families Plead for Safe ReturnThe unfolding crisis has triggered protests across South Africa. On 5 December, at least 13 relatives and supporters gathered outside Durban City Hall, holding placards reading “Bring Them Back Alive” and “Home Is Where They Belong.”
