Katlego Sekhu
The Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Justice and Constitutional Development, Mr Xola Nqola, has expressed deep concern over the disturbing videos circulating on social media, which depict alleged acts of extreme violence and torture at the ZanZou Bar Lounge in Pretoria.
The footage, which is highly graphic, appears to show the establishment’s bouncers assaulting patrons who reportedly failed to settle their bills. The clips reveal severe human rights violations, including acts resembling kidnapping, sexual assault, and attempted murder, with victims shown hogtied and filmed naked while bound.
In response, ZanZou’s management has claimed that the videos are old and part of an extortion attempt by a former security employee. They have stated that they have since replaced their security personnel and are cooperating with the police.
However, Mr Nqola has questioned why the management did not report the incident to the police when it first came to light. He has called on law enforcement to take decisive action, urging them not to rely solely on social media videos or information provided by the establishment.
“These practices are alarmingly common in many white-owned and foreign-owned nightclubs across the country. Patrons do not go out expecting to endure such horrific treatment. If accountability means arresting the managers and owners of these establishments, then that must happen,” said Mr Nqola. He further highlighted the exploitation of foreign nationals and the abuse of vulnerable South Africans who frequent these venues in search of livelihood opportunities.
“The statement from ZanZou is insufficient to explain what appears, in the eyes of the public, to be an old incident involving extortion by a security employee. We call on the Human Rights Commission to intervene, engage with the victims, and investigate the alleged extortionists. There are deeper issues at play here that need to be uncovered. Nightclubs often thrive on illegal activities that seem to go unchecked,” Mr Nqola emphasised.
The SAPS Family Violence, Child Protection, and Sexual Investigations (FCS) unit has taken over the investigation into the incident. The FCS unit, which specialises in sexual offences, is probing charges including compelled rape, assault, crimen injuria, intimidation, and kidnapping.
Police have urged anyone with information about the suspects or the incident to come forward. Individuals can report to the Brooklyn Police Station or contact the Crime Stop Hotline at 08600 10111.
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