Nkosazana Bonganini Zuma-Mncube, daughter of former President Jacob Zuma, has opened a criminal case against 17 South African men, including eight of her own family members, alleging their trafficking to fight in the Ukraine war. The formal complaint was filed at the Sandton Police Station on November 22, 2025. In her allegations, Zuma-Mncube specifically names three individuals: her sister Ms Duduzile Zuma Sambudla, Ms Siphokazi Xuma, and Mr Blessing Khoza, asserting their “key roles” in what she describes as a tragic scheme.

Zuma-Mncube’s statement details that the men were “lured to Russia under false pretences and handed to a Russian mercenary group to fight war… without their knowledge or consent.” This grave accusation points to a significant violation of South African legal statutes. She further contends that the named trio contravened the Prevention and Combating of Trafficking in Persons Act, the Regulation of Foreign Military Assistance Act, which strictly governs citizen participation in foreign conflicts, and common law fraud.

This startling revelation highlights the perilous predicament of the 17 South African citizens, who are now reportedly trapped in an active war zone and actively seeking aid from their government. The direct involvement of prominent members of the politically influential Zuma family further intensifies the complexity and urgency surrounding this high-profile case, drawing considerable public and governmental attention.

In response to the dire situation, Zuma-Mncube has issued a dual plea. Firstly, she urged the South African government to “expedite all diplomatic efforts” to ensure the immediate and safe repatriation of the men. Secondly, she appealed to the broader South African public, advising increased vigilance against potentially deceptive offers of opportunities abroad, particularly those that involve travel to conflict-ridden regions.

The South African Police Service has officially confirmed the receipt of the case. It is anticipated that this criminal complaint will trigger a series of both diplomatic and criminal investigations, aiming to uncover the truth behind the allegations and secure the safety of the trafficked individuals.