‘Pure Malevolence’: Anguish and Anger as South Africans Allegedly Deceived into Battling for Russia

A mother has not heard from her son since the end of August. The last time they spoke, he voiced concern that he was being sent to the frontlines of the ongoing conflict between the Russian Federation and its neighbor. Since that day, she has been physically unwell with anxiety.

“My health is truly suffering,” she stated, fatigue evident in her voice. “I get anxiety attacks, my hospital visits are frequent, palpitations. It's overwhelming. Constant headaches and dizziness. It’s not easy for me.”

Her son was among a contingent of seventeen South African and two citizens of Botswana men who, as stated in multiple lawsuits, were tricked into serving with Russian military forces. The alleged scheme is linked to a family member of former South African president Jacob Zuma.

A Political Bombshell

Allegations about Duduzile Zuma-Sambudla's role began to emerge recently after the South African government said it was attempting to assist citizens trapped in Ukraine. Subsequently, in a bombshell intervention, another of Zuma’s daughters, lodged a formal complaint alleging that Zuma-Sambudla and two others had misled the men.

The accusation sent shock waves through South Africa, where the wider scandal has shone a light on the severe financial hardship facing a significant youth demographic. Reports indicate a large portion of young adults are unemployed and not studying.

These individuals are thought to remain trapped in a war they never agreed to join, while their relatives far from home dread for their lives.

A Fateful Introduction

Mary, whose name has been changed, said she and her son were introduced to Zuma-Sambudla via a family connection years ago. She stated that contact was made in June with what was presented as an exciting opportunity in the foreign country.

Some of the men were allegedly told they would be trained as security personnel for a political party associated with Jacob Zuma. Others were given the impression they could join a self-improvement course, after which they could study abroad and even secure Russian citizenship.

Early hesitation eventually gave way to agreement. “I recall requesting for contracts for the school and it was just so rushed,” the mother said. “The message was: ‘They need to go, they need to go urgently.’”

Political Connections

Zuma-Sambudla, is known as a vocal supporter of her father, who retains significant sway nationally. Historical ties between certain factions and Russia date back decades. Jacob Zuma has been a leading figure in pushing for stronger alliances with nations often at in conflict with Western powers.

The accused has also publicly expressed her backing for Russia. On social media, she has made statements showing solidarity to the government in Moscow.

Separately, she is facing legal proceedings on accusations of serious offenses related to social media activity during previous riots. She denies those charges.

The Journey to War

The group allegedly gathered at a major international airport in early July before flying to Moscow. Communication records from private chat groups from July and August reportedly show the group's concerns.

By mid-August, the men started demanding answers from their recruiters, stating they were separated. One message explicitly stated: “We have been placed with a paramilitary organization, in Ukraine. We are not in Russia.”

In late August, the son contacted his parent to say he was being forced to sign a contract in a language he did not understand. A document linked to another member of the group seems to be a contract with a specific military unit that has been involved in the hostilities since its outset.

Official Actions and Family Despair

Recently, the national leadership said it had been contacted by the men and was attempting to bring them home. The government noted that recruiting for foreign militaries without official permission is illegal.

The political rift between the two political figures adds a layer of complexity to the case. Initially, the contingent included twenty individuals, but three were allowed to return home.

A mid-November call between the accused and families of the men allegedly provided little clarity. Soon thereafter, the police report was lodged by another family member, accusing her sibling and others of luring the men “based on deception” and handing them to a Russian mercenary group.

In response, the accused filed her own affidavit asserting she had been deceived by an associate into believing it was a legitimate program. “I would not knowingly expose my own family to harm,” she said in excerpts of her statement. She subsequently stepped down from her political position.

Other individuals were unavailable for comment. A government spokesperson said there was no new information on efforts to repatriate the men. Diplomatic missions have not responded to requests for comment.

Broader Implications

Reports suggest that hundreds of citizens from African countries are fighting alongside Russian forces in Ukraine, prompting calls for nations to warn their citizens about these activities.

Unrelated to this incident, five more individuals including a media personality recently appeared in court on similar allegations relating to involvement for Russia.

Meanwhile, the mother continues to be consumed by fear and bewildered and angry. “For someone to exploit a young person … That constitutes outright evil,” she said. “Promises were made that they would not see combat and she lets them down like that. What kind of person does that?”