Sirens, Secrecy and a Missing Gun: Police Impound Vehicle at Chatunga Mugabe’s Hyde Park Home

By Staff Reporter

JOHANNESBURG – South African police have impounded a luxury vehicle allegedly fitted with illegal police sirens and white lights after it was seen leaving the Hyde Park residence of Chatunga Bellarmine Mugabe during an active attempted murder investigation.

The dramatic seizure occurred on Thursday evening as officers returned to the property following an afternoon shooting that left a 23-year-old gardener in critical condition. According to reporters at the scene, police spotted the vehicle attempting to leave the premises with three occupants inside, including a household helper.

Illegal Police Equipment Discovered

Journalists from eNCA and SABC News confirmed that the vehicle was fitted with unauthorised police equipment.

Reporter Heidi Giokos stated that the car had white lights and a siren installed — equipment restricted for official law enforcement use. While certain security vehicles may legally use white lights under regulation, police clarified that the siren found on the vehicle is reserved strictly for the South African Police Service (SAPS).

The vehicle has since been impounded for further investigation.

Crime Scene Security Under Scrutiny

The seizure has raised serious questions about how the Hyde Park residence — already a declared crime scene — was left unattended for hours before officers returned. Police were reportedly searching for the firearm used in the shooting when they encountered the departing vehicle.

The gun remains missing.

Provincial police spokesperson Colonel Dimakatso Nevhuhulwi confirmed that K9 units and forensic teams are continuing the search for the weapon. A cartridge recovered from the scene has been sent for ballistic testing.

Two suspects, aged 28 and 33, have been arrested on charges of attempted murder and are expected to appear before the Alexandra Magistrate’s Court.

Pattern of Controversy

The latest development adds to a growing list of controversies surrounding Mugabe in South Africa. Investigative journalist Maynard Manyowa alleged that multiple vehicles linked to the Mugabe household have previously been fitted with blue lights and sirens.

The allegations have fuelled public debate about privilege, enforcement inconsistencies, and accountability.

### Victim Still Critical

Meanwhile, the 23-year-old gardener who was shot during the altercation remains in critical condition in hospital. Authorities have not confirmed who fired the weapon, and police say the suspects have not disclosed the firearm’s whereabouts.

The case has now been escalated to the Provincial Investigation Unit, signalling heightened scrutiny as investigations continue.

As forensic teams comb the Hyde Park property and public pressure mounts, the seizure of the siren-fitted vehicle marks a significant turn in a case already drawing widespread attention in both South Africa and Zimbabwe.