Zanzou Nightclub Accused, Claims Police Assault During Arrest

Accused 41-year-old man who was arrested by the police in connection with the Zanzou nightclub assault in Hatfield, Pretoria, has alleged that he was beaten during his arrest.

However, the suspect, a Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) national, was apprehended in Yeoville, Johannesburg, by Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD) officers last week. He briefly appeared in the Pretoria Magistrates Court on Monday and was charged with eight counts of compelled sexual assault and six counts of assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm (GBH)

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National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) confirmed that the charges stem from two separate dockets involving multiple complainants.

NPA regional spokesperson Lumka Mahanjana stated
“One case involves four men who opened charges, while another involves two men. More charges may be added if additional victims come forward.”

Authorities are still searching for at least eight other suspects linked to the nightclub torture incident, which surfaced after disturbing videos of the assaults were widely circulated on social media.

During the court hearing, the suspect claimed that police officers assaulted him and stole his money and belongings during his arrest. Mahanjana confirmed that an investigation into the allegations would be conducted.
“The state needs to verify the truthfulness of his claims before taking further action.”

Meanwhile, the accused remains in custody until his bail hearing on March 3, when the state will also verify his legal status in South Africa.

This has attracted significant public attention, with members of the uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) party in Tshwane attending the court proceedings.

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“We strongly oppose bail for the accused and demand justice for the victims. We are confident that other accomplices will also be arrested.” Former Tshwane human settlements MMC Abel Tau stated.

Additionally, the regulatory body is also investigating whether the security company responsible for deploying the accused complied with industry regulations.

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