Pretoria – Shocking video clips of violent and humiliating abuse of nude patrons at Pretoria’s Zanzou nightclub have been doing the rounds on social media, prompting the police to launch an investigation.
In the disturbing video clips, a group of tough-looking men are seen assaulting nude male patrons whom they ordered to perform lewd acts on themselves.
Some of the humiliated patrons can be seen with their legs and hands bound with ropes behind their backs.
On Monday, (17 February 2025), the National Commissioner of the South African Police Service (SAPS), General Fannie Masemola directed the Provincial Commissioner of Gauteng, Lieutenant General Tommy Mthombeni to track and trace suspects.
General Masemola also called on all victims who were subjected to the abuse and assault by the suspects to come forward and open a case at the Brooklyn Police Station or any other precinct.
Police spokesperson Brigadier Athlenda Mathe said law enforcers were investigating various offences including assault, assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm, crimen injuria, and kidnapping.
“The actions depicted in the video also contravene the POPIA Act in which they displayed and distributed the faces and bodily features of the victims,” said Brigadier Mathe.
Unconfirmed reports said the patrons were attacked after they failed to settle their bills.
However, the nightclub’s management claimed the incidents in which bouncers allegedly tortured and abused patrons were related to theft rather than unpaid bills.
In a press statement made available to The Bulrushes, Zanzou Management said it is aware of the circulation of “disturbing historical videos” that depict security personnel using excessive force in response to incidents of phone theft.
“At the time when management became aware of these practices, an immediate investigation was conducted which resulted in the immediate halting of such as well as the dismissal of security personnel responsible for the perpetration thereof,” the statement said.
“In line with our commitment to ensuring a safe and secure environment, we have since outsourced our security services to a fully registered and compliant security company that operates strictly in accordance with South African laws and regulations.
“We have also instructed that our staff comply with the law and SAPS in bringing thieves to book.”
The nightclub management said it was exploring legal options around the conduct of a former security employee who was responsible for these practices and was thus able to document them on video.
“Mr. Herve has sought to unsuccessfully extort the business in lieu of withholding these videos from public release and has, as a result, formulated a dishonest narrative around the surrounding circumstances in an attempt to force the business to settle his demands,” the statement said.
“Zanzou remains steadfast in its dedication to the safety and well-being of its patrons.
“We are fully prepared to cooperate with law enforcement authorities in any investigations related to this matter.
“The video is in no way connected to any patrons not settling any outstanding bill amounts as falsely stated on numerous social media platforms.”
The disturbing video clips have resulted in the nightclub being slammed.
ProToolz posted on X: “Please help shut down these places. We need justice for these boys. This is a human rights violation and other horrible crimes. I cannot begin to imagine what they’re also doing to our sisters.”
Speaking to The Bulrushes, clubgoer David Motloung described the video clips as shameful.
“Instead of subjecting the patrons to such shameful acts that have gone viral, perhaps another way could be used to extract payment or an agreement could be reached,” suggested Motloung.
“Whoever is responsible must be brought to book. I will never set foot in that place.”
Not In My Name International is demanding the “immediate closure” of the establishment pending a thorough investigation.
“We urge the social media community to refrain from circulating the videos and images of the victims, as this constitutes revenge porn and sexual offense, leading to secondary victimization and further harm to the victims,” said Themba Masango, Not In My Name International Secretary-General.
Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) party members visited the nightclub on Monday to demand its closure.
The EFF also demanded the arrest of Stephane Cohen, the owner of Zanzou.
