There are growing calls for the arrest of Stephane Cohen, owner of the popular Zanzou nightclub in Pretoria, after disturbing videos of patrons being tortured by the establishment’s bouncers went viral on social media.
The graphic videos, which surfaced on Monday, depict a group of young men being physically and sexually assaulted. Reports allege that the assaults were carried out because the victims owed money to the nightclub.
Disturbing Footage Sparks Nationwide Shock
The footage, which has been widely shared on social media, shows patrons being subjected to extreme acts of violence. In several clips, victims are seen being beaten, while others were forced to perform degrading sexual acts under duress.
The shocking nature of the videos has sparked outrage across South Africa, with many condemning the nightclub’s management for failing to protect patrons from such brutal treatment.
Nightclub Issues Statement Amid Backlash
In response to the backlash, Zanzou nightclub released a statement acknowledging the incidents and confirming that it had taken steps to address the matter.
The club stated that it had hired a fully registered and compliant security company to oversee the safety of its premises going forward. Management also said that it had instructed all staff members to cooperate fully with law enforcement as investigations continued.
Despite these actions, many believe that the nightclub’s measures are insufficient. Critics argue that the owner must be held accountable for the actions of his employees, especially given the severity of the assaults captured in the videos.
EFF Demands Owner’s Arrest
The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) have been vocal in their calls for justice. The party released a statement demanding that Zanzou’s owner, Stephane Cohen, face legal consequences for the actions of his bouncers.
“Such horrific acts cannot go unpunished. The owner must also be held accountable for allowing such behavior to take place under his roof,” said Nkululeko Dunga, the EFF’s Gauteng chairperson.
Dunga further stated that the EFF would work to ensure that justice was served, including bringing the matter to the attention of the South African Human Rights Commission (SAHRC).
Owner’s Business Empire Under Scrutiny
Stephane Cohen, who is believed to own at least 12 popular restaurants and nightclubs across Pretoria and Johannesburg, is now facing increased scrutiny. His social media profiles showcase his extensive involvement in the hospitality industry, but the latest controversy has cast a shadow over his business empire.
Many are now questioning whether similar incidents have occurred at Cohen’s other establishments and are calling for wider investigations into his businesses.
Police Launch Full Investigation
South African police have confirmed that they are actively investigating the incidents. Authorities have announced plans to raid Zanzou nightclub to gather further evidence and determine the full extent of the assaults.
National police spokesperson Brigadier Athlenda Mathe stated that the Provincial Commissioner of Gauteng, Lieutenant General Tommy Mthombeni, has been directed to oversee the investigation and ensure that all responsible parties are held accountable.
Additionally, the police are encouraging any other victims or witnesses to come forward with information. “We urge anyone who may have been subjected to abuse or who has knowledge of the incidents to report to the nearest police station,” said Mathe.
Public Demands Justice
The outrage over the Zanzou incident has reignited conversations about violence in South Africa’s nightlife scene. Many social media users and public figures are calling for stronger regulations and oversight of security personnel at entertainment venues to prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future.
While the nightclub’s management has taken some corrective actions, the public and advocacy groups remain adamant that justice must be served. With investigations ongoing and mounting pressure from various sectors, all eyes are on the authorities to ensure that those responsible for the horrific acts are brought to justice.
