A Bulawayo magistrate has dismissed a third bail application by three relatives of Collins Mnangagwa, who are facing charges of possessing dangerous drugs.

The accused are Amina Jassinta Jessub Arab, 47, Dyonne Tanaka Tafirenyika, 28, and Noreen Jessub, 51. The trio was arrested on August 19 and has remained in custody.

The latest application was based on alleged changed circumstances, with the defence arguing that developments since their previous bail applications justified their release.

The court, however, rejected the application, meaning the three will remain in custody as the criminal proceedings continue.

Arab is the mother of Kelsea Tafirenyika, who is married to Collins Mnangagwa, while Dyonne is Kelsea’s sister.

Police allege that suspected dangerous drugs were recovered during searches following the arrests. The case has attracted public attention because of the accused’s family links and separate drug-related allegations involving Kelsea Tafirenyika.

The three accused have not been convicted and remain presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in court.