Three victims who were allegedly assaulted at the popular Zanzou nightclub in Pretoria have formally reported their cases at the Brooklyn police station. This follows the circulation of disturbing videos on social media that depict acts of violence and torture allegedly committed by the nightclub’s bouncers.
Graphic Videos Spark Investigation
The highly graphic clips show men hogtied, naked, and bound, allegedly as punishment for failing to settle their bills. The videos depict acts tantamount to kidnapping, sexual assault, attempted murder, and severe human rights violations.
National police spokesperson, Brigadier Athlenda Mathe, confirmed that an investigation has been launched. Authorities are currently investigating multiple charges, including rape, assault, assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm (GBH), crimen injuria, and kidnapping.
“The National Commissioner of the South African Police Service (SAPS), General Fannie Masemola, has directed the Provincial Commissioner of Gauteng, Lieutenant General Tommy Mthombeni, to track and trace suspects who are alleged to have violently abused and assaulted a group of men at a popular nightclub in Pretoria,” Mathe said.
Lieutenant General Mthombeni was present at the police station with the victims during the reporting process, signaling SAPS’ commitment to addressing the case promptly.
Call for More Victims and Witnesses
Mathe encouraged any other victims or witnesses with knowledge of the incidents to come forward.
“Witnesses and those who have knowledge of the incident are also encouraged to come forward to assist police investigations,” she added. The police are working diligently to build a solid case against those involved, ensuring justice for the victims.
EFF Stages Protest
Meanwhile, members of the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) gathered outside the nightclub to protest the violent incidents. The protesters demanded the arrest of Zanzou’s owner, Stephane Cohen, and called for the nightclub’s immediate closure.
“Such abhorrent behaviour cannot be tolerated in a society that prides itself on upholding human dignity and justice. The EFF strongly believes that there is no reason whatsoever to justify the dehumanization of other people like that,” said Nkululeko Dunga, the EFF’s Gauteng chairperson.
The EFF’s protest is part of a larger call for accountability and justice. Dunga stated that the party intends to report the incident to the Human Rights Commission of South Africa (SAHRC) to ensure Zanzou’s management faces full accountability for the actions of its security personnel.
Zanzou Management’s Response
While Zanzou nightclub management has yet to issue a formal apology, they have acknowledged the videos and confirmed that the security personnel involved have been dismissed. In a previous statement, the management denied that the incidents were related to unpaid bills, as widely circulated on social media.
They also stated that they had outsourced their security service to a registered and compliant company and expressed their willingness to cooperate with the ongoing investigation.
Community Outrage and Calls for Justice
The videos have sparked public outrage across South Africa, with citizens taking to social media to express their anger and demand justice. Human rights organizations and advocacy groups have condemned the violence, calling for swift legal action against all responsible parties.
Many are also questioning the club’s oversight and management practices, with renewed calls for stricter regulations in the nightlife industry to protect patrons from similar incidents in the future.
Next Steps
As investigations continue, police remain focused on tracking down the perpetrators and gathering evidence to ensure a successful prosecution. The involvement of prominent figures, such as the SAPS National Commissioner and the Gauteng Provincial Commissioner, indicates the gravity with which the case is being handled.
The victims and their families now await justice, while the public watches closely for further developments. South Africans are hopeful that this case will set a precedent for accountability and the protection of human rights in all public spaces.
