A 41-year-old Congolese national has appeared in court in connection with a disturbing incident at Zanzou Club in Hatfield, where patrons were assaulted and tortured.
The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) has confirmed that more charges could be added against the accused, who was arrested following the viral videos that surfaced on social media last week.
Charges in Connection with Assault and Sexual Abuse
The accused appeared before the Pretoria Magistrates’ Court on Monday, 24 February, facing a range of serious charges.
He is currently facing eight counts of compelled sexual assault and six counts of assault with grievous bodily harm.
The charges are linked to two separate incidents, one dating back to April 2022 and the other in January 2023.
In these cases, the accused is said to have been involved in the assault and forced sexual acts on victims at the nightclub.
Social Media Videos Spark Nationwide Outrage
The case gained widespread attention after shocking videos emerged online, showing nightclub bouncers allegedly torturing patrons who were accused of stealing cellphones.
In the disturbing footage, several patrons are seen being coerced into humiliating sexual acts, with some appearing naked and forced to line up.
Those who refused to comply with the demands faced violent repercussions.
The videos caused an uproar across South Africa, with political parties like uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) and the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) leading protests outside the nightclub.
Investigation and Court Proceedings
NPA spokesperson Phindi Mjonondwane confirmed that the charges stem from two case files opened by the authorities.
The first incident involved two victims who were assaulted in April 2022, while the second case, dating to January 2023, involved four men who were allegedly forced to perform sexual acts.
Following the circulation of the videos on social media, six other victims came forward, leading to the filing of additional complaints.
The case has been postponed until 3 March 2025, when further bail information will be provided.
The investigation is still ongoing, and more charges may be brought against the accused as the probe continues.
Public Reaction and Continuing Investigation
The incident has raised serious concerns about safety and accountability at venues like Zanzou Club, with many questioning whether more people were involved in the disturbing events.
The public’s response to the case has been one of outrage and disbelief, with calls for justice growing louder each day.