Liquor Board Suspends Zanzou Nightclub’s Operating Licence Amid Criminal Probe

The Gauteng Liquor Board (GLB) has suspended Zanzou nightclub’s operating licence with immediate effect due to ongoing criminal investigations. The nightclub came under intense scrutiny after videos surfaced showing the brutal assault and sexual abuse of five young men on the premises.

The GLB stated that the suspension follows reports of severe non-compliance and egregious violations of the law. The decision was made in line with Sections 106(5) and 117(1) of the Gauteng Liquor Act, citing serious concerns regarding the safety and lawful operation of the establishment.

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The nightclub’s liquor license will remain suspended until a formal inquiry is concluded, along with ongoing SAPS investigations.

Illegal Zoning and By-Law Violations

Further investigations revealed that Zanzou was never legally zoned to operate as a nightclub. An inquiry by the Democratic Alliance (DA) in Tshwane found that the venue was classified as a Category 1 business, which prohibits nightclub operations.

This means that even before the shocking videos surfaced, Zanzou was already in violation of city by-laws.

Horrific Assault and Sexual Abuse

Police spokesperson Brigadier Athlenda Mathe provided details on the disturbing events that allegedly occurred in January 2023. According to reports, a dispute broke out between five friends, nightclub bouncers, and the manager.

The bouncers and the manager allegedly forced the five men into a storeroom, where they were viciously assaulted, ordered to insert alcohol bottles into their private parts, and forced to perform sexual acts on themselves.

SAPS has launched a manhunt for at least eight foreign nationals believed to be involved. Investigators are also urging a former Zanzou bouncer known as ‘Pablo’—who made allegations on social media—to come forward and assist with the case.

SA Human Rights Commission Investigates

The South African Human Rights Commission (SAHRC) has condemned the acts depicted in the videos, calling them a gross violation of human dignity and bodily integrity. The commission has launched its own investigation and is engaging with SAPS to ensure that adequate resources are dedicated to solving the case.

As part of its probe, the SAHRC plans to meet with Zanzou’s management to question why the incidents were not reported to the police, what steps have been taken since the abuse came to light, and whether the club’s culture contributed to these violent acts.

Zanzou Management Responds

In a statement, Zanzou acknowledged the actions of its bouncers but downplayed the severity, referring to the videos as “historical.” While many on social media speculated that the abuse was punishment for unpaid bills, the club denied this, claiming that the victims were suspected of phone theft.

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Management stated that once they became aware of the incidents, an internal investigation was conducted, the abusive practices were ended, and the security personnel involved were dismissed.

With Zanzou’s liquor licence now suspended, a police manhunt underway, and a human rights investigation launched, mounting pressure is building against the nightclub and its owners.

Authorities are calling on any additional victims or witnesses to come forward and provide statements to assist in the investigations.

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