Police Allege Robert Mugabe Jr. is at the Centre of a Drug Peddling Syndicate
The son of Zimbabwe’s late former president, Robert Mugabe Junior (33), is at the center of a major police investigation, with authorities alleging he is a key figure in a drug peddling syndicate.
He spent a second night in custody following his arrest on 1 October 2025. Police have also confirmed the arrests of five other individuals allegedly linked to the network: Mitchel Jackson (28), Simbarashe Kaseke (37), Wellington Ncube (19), Phillip Munetsi Chiyangwa (26), and Tanaka Kashamba (25), alongside the seizure of a substantial quantity of drugs.
Syndicate Busted, Drugs Seized
A Zimbabwe Republic Police press statement dated 2 October 2025, confirmed the wider arrests. Besides Robert Mugabe Junior, the alleged syndicate includes:
- Mitchel Jackson (28)
- Simbarashe Kaseke (37)
- Wellington Ncube (19)
- Phillip Munetsi Chiyangwa (26)
- Tanaka Kashamba (25)
According to Commissioner Paul Nyathi, the recovery from the syndicate was significant. The statement detailed that "the haul from the syndicate consisted of 25 sachets of Indo hybrid dagga and six ecstasy pills." This official account points to a much larger operation than what was initially presented in court for Mugabe Junior’s personal charge.
The Arrest That Triggered the Investigation
The investigation was initiated following a traffic stop in central Harare. Mugabe was intercepted while driving a silver Honda Fit against oncoming traffic along 2nd Street Extension. Prosecutor Mandirasa Chigumira told the court that upon searching his bag, police found two sachets of dagga, Rizla paper, and a crusher, valued at US$30. She added that Mugabe refused to sign the seizure receipt.
A Family Under Scrutiny
This is not Mugabe Junior’s first clash with the law. In February 2023, he was arrested during what was described as a "drunken rampage" at a party, facing allegations of property damage. That case was later withdrawn after he paid compensation. He is being represented in the current matter by the same lawyer, Ashiel Mugiya.
The Mugabe family has faced multiple legal issues in 2025. His younger brother, Bellarmine Chatunga, was taken into custody on 1 July, accused of leading an armed group that attacked mine workers near the family estate in Mazowe. These incidents are seen by analysts as a reflection of the family's changing status in Zimbabwe.
Frequently Asked Questions
As of the evening of October 2nd, Robert Mugabe Jr. has been remanded in custody. Magistrate Lisa Mutendereki has scheduled his bail hearing for Friday, October 3rd, 2025.
He was initially charged with "unlawful possession of dagga." However, the police press statement now alleges his involvement in a "drug peddling syndicate," which suggests that more serious charges related to drug dealing could be added as the investigation widens.
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