Robert Tinotenda Mugabe Junior , the 33-year-old son of Zimbabwe’s late former President Robert Mugabe, was convicted on November 13, 2025, in the Harare Magistrates Court for unlawful possession of illegal drugs under Zimbabwe’s Dangerous Drugs Act.Key Details of the Case:
- Arrest and Charges: Mugabe Jnr was initially arrested on October 2, 2025, in Harare after police stopped him for driving the wrong way down a one-way street. Officers searched his black sling bag and allegedly found two small sachets containing approximately 2 grams of dagga (marijuana), along with a pack of Rizla rolling papers and a white dagga crusher. The street value of the drugs was estimated at US$30. He was charged with possessing controlled substances without authorization.
- Court Proceedings: Mugabe Jnr first appeared in court on October 3, 2025, and was granted bail of US$300. He failed to attend a scheduled hearing on November 6, leading to an arrest warrant, which was canceled after he presented himself in court. On November 13, he pleaded guilty before Magistrate Lisa Mutendereki. In mitigation, he requested leniency, explaining that he is a single father raising two young children and had cooperated with police.
- Outcome: He was fined US$300, with an alternative of four months in prison if unpaid. Additionally, he received a three-month prison sentence, wholly suspended on the condition that he does not commit a similar offense within five years. Prosecutors emphasized that “no one is above the law,” while his lawyer, Ashiel Mugiya, highlighted his family responsibilities.
