Accused in Zanzou nightclub torture case appears in court after arrest
Videos of alleged patrons at Zanzou nightclub being tortured and forced to perform sexual acts on themselves sparked outrage.
The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) says more cases may be added against the 41-year-old Congolese national who was arrested in connection with the assault and torture of patrons at Zanzou Club in Hatfield.
The 41-year-old appeared in the Pretoria Magistrates’ Court on Monday, 24 February, facing eight counts of compelled sexual assault and six counts of assault with grievous bodily harm.
ACCUSED ALLEGEDLY LINKED TO ZANZOU NIGHTCLUB TORTURE REMANDED IN CUSTODY
As previously reported by The South African, in videos that were circulated on social media last week, bouncers were seen torturing patrons whom the nightclub said were accused of stealing cellphones.
The videos show patrons allegedly being coerced into humiliating sexual activities, with some appearing naked and forming a line. In addition, those who refuse to comply face severe consequences.
The shocking incident sparked outrage across the country including political parties such as uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) Party and the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) which protested outside the establishment following the viral videos.
On Monday, NPA spokesperson in Gauteng, Phindi Mjonondwane said the charges emanate from two case dockets opened against the accused.
Mjonondwane said it is alleged that in April 2022 the accused assaulted the two victims in the matter. On a separate incident in January 2023, it is alleged the accused compelled four male persons to perform sexual acts on themselves.
“This was discovered when videos surfaced on social media, which resulted in six complainants opening cases against the accused.
“In court the matter was postponed to 3 March 2025 for bail information. Investigations are ongoing, more charges might be added,” Mjonondwane said.
FILM AND PUBLICATION BOARD ADVISES AGAINST SHARING ASSAULT VIDEOS
Meanwhile, the Film and Publication Board has warned against sharing videos of the incident at Zanzou.
The Board reiterated that in terms of the Films and Publications Act of 1996, it is a criminal offence to distribute in public content which contains explicit sexual conduct which violates or shows disrespect for the right to the human dignity of any person.
“Any person who distributes such restricted content shall be guilty of an offence and upon conviction, be liable to a maximum fine of R500 000 or imprisonment for a maximum period of five years or to both a fine and such imprisonment,” the FPB said.