A 41-year-old Congolese national, identified as a bouncer at the Zanzou nightclub in Hatfield, has been arrested in connection with disturbing viral videos that surfaced on social media. The videos, which show individuals being forced to perform explicit acts and subjected to brutal torture, sparked outrage across the public and prompted a police investigation.
According to police spokesperson Brigadier Brenda Muridili, Johannesburg Metropolitan Police Department (JMPD) officers recognized the suspect during patrols in the Yeoville area, identifying him as one of the bouncers from the Hatfield club. The man was apprehended after officers confirmed his identity and linked him to the disturbing footage.
The suspect has been charged with compelled rape, assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm, and crimen injuria. He is also linked to two other cases filed at the Brooklyn Police Station. The videos, which show graphic human rights violations, depict individuals being subjected to acts such as forced masturbation, waterboarding, and physical assault. One of the videos even shows the torturer threatening the victims with death.
The Provincial Commissioner, Lieutenant General Tommy Mthombeni, praised the swift action taken by the JMPD officers. “This is a true reflection of law enforcement agencies in Gauteng working together,” he stated, commending the efforts of all involved in apprehending the suspect.
The arrested bouncer is set to appear in court on Monday, February 24, 2025, to face the charges.