A Harare magistrate has issued a warrant for the arrest of Robert Mugabe Junior, the 33-year-old son of late former President Robert Mugabe, after he failed to appear in court for his trial on charges of possessing dangerous drugs.

According to reports, Magistrate Lisa Mutendereki authorized the warrant after the court orderly called Mugabe’s name three times outside the courtroom, but he was nowhere to be found. Mugabe had been released on $300 bail following his arrest on October 1, when police found two sachets of dagga, a packet of Rizla rolling papers, and a dagga crusher in his car.

The court had summoned Mugabe for trial today, but his absence prompted the magistrate to take swift action. Three witnesses who were waiting to testify were told they would be summoned again once Mugabe is located .

This is not the first time Mugabe Junior has faced legal trouble. In February 2023, he was arrested over allegations of malicious damage to property after a party in Harare, where cars were reportedly damaged. The matter was later withdrawn after compensation was paid .

Mugabe’s lawyer will likely face pressure to produce his client in court to answer the charges. The case has drawn significant public attention due to Mugabe’s family background and the serious nature of the charges.

Will he appear in court to answer the charges, or will he remain elusive?
end /