'Case against Chatunga Mugabe remains strong'

Specialist crime investigator Mike Bolhuis has dismissed social media speculation that the criminal case against Robert Mugabe's son, Bellarmine Chatunga Mugabe, and his co-accused, Tobias Matonhodze, could be dismissed due to a missing firearm allegedly used in a recent shooting.

The two were arrested following the shooting of an employee at the Mugabe Hyde Park property last week. Concerns had circulated online that the absence of the weapon might weaken the prosecution's case.

Bolhuis clarified that the case remains strong, citing physical evidence of the gunshot, witness testimony, and the victim's gunshot wound. "There is physical evidence of the shot. There is witnesses and there is a gun wound and he is critical in hospital, these are all facts and information to be presented in court. There is no other way this person finds himself in this situation without being shot by a gun," he said.

He further warned that failing to come forward with the firearm or the victim lying or withholding information would have legal consequences. "This case cannot fall away. Nobody can withdraw this case and this case has to be prosecuted by the state," Bolhuis added.

Mugabe and Matonhodze made their first appearance at the Alexandra Magistrate's Court on Monday, with two additional charges added against them. The matter will continue through the courts as the investigation and prosecution proceed.