South African police have launched a manhunt for eight suspects and launched an investigation into allegations of assault, compelled rape, and kidnapping at the Zanzou nightclub in Pretoria.
Police have also called on a man known as “Pablo” on social media, who claims to be a former nightclub bouncer, to come forward.
Police national spokesperson Brigadier Athlenda Mathe said, “We are calling on a man who claims to be a former bouncer of the nightclub who goes by the name Pablo on social media platforms also to come forward to assist police investigations. Pablo has made numerous allegations, and police are of the view that he will be instrumental in assisting to solve this particular case.”
The Family Violence, Child Protection, and Sexual Investigations unit is now handling the case after three women, aged 20, 21, and 22, reported the incident at Brooklyn police station on Monday. The women claim they were part of a group of five friends who were abused in January 2023 following a dispute involving nightclub bouncers and the manager.
Authorities are searching for the remaining two alleged victims and have identified eight foreign nationals as suspects.
Zanzou management responds
Zanzou nightclub management has distanced itself from the allegations, stating that those responsible were immediately dismissed once management became aware of the incidents.
“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.”
the club said in a statement.
Management also indicated they were pursuing legal options against a former security employee who allegedly documented the incidents on video.
EFF demands the arrest of club owner
The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) have called for the immediate arrest of Zanzou nightclub owner Stephane Cohen and the closure of the club.
“Such abhorrent behaviour cannot be tolerated in a society that prides itself on upholding human dignity and justice. We reject explanations of phone theft by Zanzou and the attempt by management to absolve themselves from this incident and shift the blame solely on the security personnel,” said EFF provincial chairperson Nkululeko Dunga.
Calls for accountability
Advocacy group Not In My Name International has condemned the allegations, calling them a disturbing reflection of gender-based violence in South Africa.
“This blatant disregard for human rights and dignity is unacceptable when powerful individuals and establishments weaponise sexual offence, it has far-reaching consequences that erode the fabric of our society,” the organisation said.
The investigation remains ongoing, with authorities urging any additional victims or witnesses to come forward.
