Duduzile Zuma-Sambudla, an uMkhonto we Sizwe Party MP, is facing severe allegations and formal criminal charges related to her alleged central role in recruiting and trafficking young South African men to participate in the Russia-Ukraine conflict. The Democratic Alliance (DA) has formally laid these charges against her in terms of the Regulation of Foreign Military Assistance Act, highlighting the gravity of the accusations.

The criminal charges follow the emergence of new and compelling evidence, which includes approximately 100 WhatsApp messages. These messages, allegedly from a group administered by Zuma-Sambudla, purportedly show a coordinated effort to lure at least 22 men to Russia. The men were allegedly enticed under false pretenses, with promises of "personal development," "security training," and even the prospect of Russian or Canadian citizenship.

The issue first surfaced publicly when Zuma-Sambudla’s own sister opened a criminal case against her, alleging that she had misled the men into a dangerous situation. Tragically, 17 South African men are currently reported to be trapped in Russia, allegedly deployed in a "red zone" in North Donetsk as part of Russian forces.

In response to these escalating allegations and charges, it has been confirmed by Nhleko that Duduzile Zuma-Sambudla has resigned from her position and will not be taking part in any public engagements going forward.