Mandela’s Grandson Released Amid Uber Hijacking Investigation

A grandson of the late Nelson Mandela has been released after his arrest in connection with the hijacking and robbery of an Uber driver. However, authorities say he is not yet in the clear as investigations continue.

The case stems from an incident last Wednesday when four individuals allegedly requested an Uber ride before robbing the driver of his vehicle, R800 in cash, and an additional R300 withdrawn from their account.

The Johannesburg Metro Police Department (JMPD) tracked the stolen white Toyota Corolla to a residence in Houghton Estate, previously owned by Nelson Mandela. Upon searching the property, officers recovered the vehicle and an unlicensed firearm. Five people, including Mandela’s grandson, were arrested at the scene.

Four of the accused appeared in the Johannesburg Magistrate’s Court on Friday, facing charges of robbery with aggravating circumstances, kidnapping, and assault. Prosecutor Tshepo Mahange kaMzizi indicated that the state intends to oppose bail applications, citing the doctrine of common purpose.

The fifth suspect, Mandela’s grandson, was released due to insufficient evidence directly linking him to the crimes. However, the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) confirmed that investigations are ongoing, and a decision regarding potential charges will follow their conclusion.

Ndaba Mandela, another of Nelson Mandela’s grandsons, expressed shock at the arrests. He clarified that the Houghton property belongs to the Mandela family and is not rented out, despite earlier claims.

“We are still fighting to keep the house within the family. The arrests have been deeply shocking,” Ndaba said.

Security guard Johannes Cassanga corroborated this, stating that the arrested grandson lived on the property but denied that it was rented to outsiders.

This is not the first time Mandela’s grandson has faced legal troubles. Previous allegations of rape, domestic abuse, and drug-related issues were dismissed due to lack of evidence.

The case has been postponed to January 17 to allow for further investigations. Meanwhile, the four accused remain in custody, represented by Legal Aid counsel, and will formally apply for bail.

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