South African police have opened an inquiry into Duduzile Zuma-Sambudla following allegations of human trafficking and fraud. The case involves 17 South African men reportedly lured to Russia and forced into the Ukraine war. The docket has been transferred to the Hawks for further investigation.
The South African Police Service (SAPS) confirmed on November 23, 2025, that an inquiry docket has been opened at Sandton Police Station targeting Duduzile Zuma-Sambudla. Brigadier Athlenda Mathe, the national spokesperson, stated that the matter has been handed over to the Hawks' Crimes Against the State (CATS) unit due to its complexity.
This development stems from a criminal case filed by Nkosazana Bonganini Zuma-Mncube, the eldest daughter of former President Jacob Zuma. She accused Zuma-Sambudla, along with Siphokazi Xuma and Blessing Khoza, of human trafficking and fraud. The allegations center on 17 South African men who were supposedly enticed to Russia under false promises and then delivered to a Russian mercenary group to fight in the ongoing Ukraine conflict without their consent or awareness.
Mathe noted that investigators have not yet interviewed the affected individuals. Minister of International Relations Ronald Lamola emphasized that the law must proceed as normal. The case highlights concerns over the recruitment of South Africans into foreign conflicts, though details on the men's current status remain unclear from official statements.
Social media reports, including a post from journalist Samkele Maseko, echoed Zuma-Mncube's claims about the 17 men stuck in Ukraine, underscoring public interest in the family-linked scandal.