Police are calling on victims depicted in disturbing viral videos from Pretoria’s Zanzou nightclub, where individuals were forced to perform explicit acts on themselves, to step forward.

Authorities are investigating the incident and are urging anyone involved or with information to assist in the ongoing probe.

Pretoria Rekord reports that the highly graphic videos, depicting severe human rights violations, have gone viral on social media, sparking outrage and prompting police to intensify efforts to bring those responsible to justice.

According to police, the incident happened in January 2023. In the videos, the men are forced to perform lewd sexual acts on themselves using their hands and objects. In another instance, a grey cloth is placed over their heads before they are drenched in water – a torture technique known as waterboarding.

A man is seen stabbing the victims in the buttocks in one of the videos. “Don’t move, you think we’re playing here. You’re going to die,” the torturer is heard saying.

National police spokesperson Brigadier Athlenda Mathe confirmed that only three victims, aged 20, 21 and 22, reported the incident at the Brooklyn Police Station last night.

“According to the victims, they were a group of five friends who were subjected to the abuse. Police are confident that the other two victims will be traced and their statements will also be included in the docket.”

She said the victims allege that a dispute arose between the five friends, bouncers and the nightclub manager in January 2023.

“Police are also calling on a man who claims to be a former nightclub bouncer, who goes by the name of Pablo on social media, to come forward to assist with investigations. Pablo has made numerous allegations, and police believe he could be instrumental in solving the case.”

Suspects sought

Meanwhile, national police commissioner Fannie Masemola has instructed Gauteng police head Tommy Mthombeni to trace the suspects and bring them to book.

The SAPS is investigating charges of compelled rape, assault, crimen injuria, intimidation and kidnapping.

“The SAPS Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Offences Investigations Unit confirms that additional charges of rape (sexual penetration without consent) and sexual assault (being forced to participate in sexual acts) may be added to the case.”

Those who have knowledge of the suspects’ whereabouts are encouraged to report to the Brooklyn Police Station or call the Crime Stop Hotline at 08600 10111. Smartphone users can also use the MYSAPS app to share information anonymously.

Club’s response

In a statement, the nightclub’s management claimed they were aware of the disturbing videos.

“At the time when management became aware of the practices, an immediate investigation was conducted, leading to the immediate halting of such acts and the dismissal of the security personnel responsible,” they said.

Zanzou’s management further claimed they are committed to ensuring a safe and secure environment for patrons.

“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 our staff to comply with the law and SAPS when bringing thieves to book.”

The club added that it has acquired legal counsel and denies claims that the men seen enduring brutal torture failed to settle their bills.

Protest

Last night the EFF protested outside the nightclub, demanding the arrest of owner Stephane Cohen and the club’s permanent shutdown.

Provincial chairperson Nkululeko Dunga condemned the behaviour: “Such abhorrent behaviour cannot be tolerated in a society that prides itself on upholding human dignity and justice.

“The EFF strongly believes there is no reason whatsoever to justify the dehumanisation of other people like that. We condemn these inhumane acts and demand immediate legal action against the perpetrators.”

‘A gross violation of human rights’

Meanwhile, SA News reports that the Department of Justice and Constitutional Development strongly condemns the shocking and deeply disturbing acts of violence, torture and dehumanisation as depicted in widely circulated videos.

According to the department, these ‘reprehensible acts’ are a gross violation of the fundamental human rights enshrined in the Constitution of South Africa, which upholds the values of human dignity, equality and the rule of law.

The Constitution guarantees the inherent dignity and worth of every person. Section 10 explicitly affirms that everyone has the right to have their dignity respected and protected, while Section 12 guarantees freedom and security of the person, including the right to be free from all forms of violence, torture and cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment.

“The horrific actions witnessed in the videos are an affront to these foundational rights and have no place in our democratic society.

“No individual or group has the right to take the law into their own hands. South Africa is governed by the rule of law, where justice is administered through legal and constitutional means,” the department said in a statement.

“The barbaric and inhumane treatment of individuals, as seen in the videos, must be met with the full force of the law to uphold justice and reaffirm the principle that human rights are non-negotiable.”

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