KEY POINTS
- Police are searching for eight men connected to multiple charges, including compelled rape, assault, etc
- Three victims have come forward, detailing harrowing experiences of being forced into sexual acts and physical assaults by bouncers and the nightclub manager.
- Zanzou nightclub has denied involvement, blaming former staff and claiming to have taken corrective measures.
Police are intensifying their search for eight men linked to a series of heinous crimes, including compelled rape, assault, criminal injury, intimidation, and kidnapping, allegedly committed at Zanzou nightclub, Pretoria, South Africa
The case has sent panic through the community, with authorities urging victims and witnesses to come forward.
National police spokesperson Brigadier Athlenda Mathe revealed that three victims, aged 20, 21, and 22, have already stepped forward following a public appeal by law enforcement.
“The victims allege that the incident happened in January 2023, wherein a dispute arose between the five friends, bouncers, and the manager of the nightclub,” said Mathe.
“The bouncers and manager allegedly forced the five victims into a storeroom and began assaulting them, instructed them to insert alcohol bottles into their private parts, and forced them to perform sexual acts on themselves.”
The allegations have sparked outrage, with calls for justice growing louder. Mathe also highlighted the role of a former bouncer, identified only as Pablo, who is believed to have shared videos depicting the abuse of patrons.
“Pablo has made numerous allegations, and police are of the view that he would be instrumental in assisting police to solve this case,” she added. Authorities are urging Pablo to come forward with any additional information that could aid the investigation.
Victims speak out as Zanzou nightclub denies involvement
In response to the allegations, Zanzou nightclub released a statement acknowledging the existence of the videos but distancing itself from the crimes.
The Zamzou nightclub authorities blamed former security personnel for the theft of customers’ phones and claimed that management acted swiftly upon discovering the misconduct.
“At the time when management became aware of these practices, an immediate investigation was conducted, which resulted in the immediate halting of such acts as well as the dismissal of security personnel responsible for the perpetration thereof,” the statement read.
The Zanzou nightclub also emphasized its commitment to safety, stating that it has since outsourced its security services to a fully registered and compliant company.
“In line with our commitment to ensuring a safe and secure environment, we have instructed our staff to comply with the law and SAPS in bringing thieves to book,” the statement added.
Despite these measures, critics argue that the nightclub’s response is insufficient, given the severity of the allegations.
Advocacy groups have called for a thorough independent investigation to ensure accountability and justice for the victims. Meanwhile, police are continuing their search for the eight suspects, who remain at large.
