South African Radio Host Arrested in Alleged Recruitment for Russian Military

Fri Dec 05 2025 04:20:26 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

Nonkululeko Patricia Mantula, a popular radio presenter, is facing charges along with four others for allegedly aiding recruitment efforts for the Russian military within South Africa. This comes amid concerns over the involvement of South African citizens in the Russia-Ukraine conflict.

A South African radio presenter, Nonkululeko Patricia Mantula, has been arrested alongside four others for allegedly facilitating the recruitment of South Africans into the Russian military. This unprecedented legal action follows government statements about the involvement of South African citizens in the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war. The accused will remain in custody pending a bail hearing scheduled for December 8, as the country's authorities continue to combat unlawful military enlistment.

Nonkululeko Patricia Mantula, a presenter with South Africa's public broadcaster SAFM, has appeared in court after being charged for allegedly recruiting individuals for the Russian military. Along with four other accused, she faces charges under a law that prohibits South Africans from joining foreign armed forces without the necessary permissions.

The arrests mark a significant development following the South African government's revelation that 17 citizens had been enticed to participate in mercenary activities related to the Russia-Ukraine war. Although police stated there is currently no direct link between these cases, the legal actions are drawing significant attention.

Mantula, aged 39, is a well-known radio personality, yet there has been no comment from her or the broadcaster regarding her arrest. This incident coincides with political turmoil surrounding the resignation of Duduzile Zuma-Sambudla, whose familial connections to the recruits have added complexity to the narrative.

The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) disclosed that the group was intercepted while attempting to travel to Russia via the UAE and were removed from boarding after appearing suspicious. Mantula has been specifically accused of facilitating travel and recruitment operations for her co-accused individuals.

The NPA emphasized their commitment to holding violators accountable and enhancing national security. The next court appearance for the accused is scheduled for December 8, when a bail application is expected to be presented.

Concerns about the potential exploitation of citizens during these turbulent economic times in South Africa have been accentuated, particularly as rampant unemployment remains a pressing issue. The situation underscores broader international challenges in the context of the ongoing Ukraine conflict and recruitment practices targeting vulnerable populations.