Zanzou director ‘apologises unreservedly’ to victims
One of the directors of Zanzou nightclub in Pretoria has apologised to the victims of an alleged torture incident that reportedly took place at the establishment nearly three years ago.
Police are investigating after videos depicting the assault and sexual abuse of young men were widely shared on social media last month.
READ: Police probe ‘torture’ at popular Pretoria club
Two police dockets were opened after six victims initially came forward. A seventh victim was traced at the weekend.
A 41-year-old Congolese national, who is said to be one of the bouncers at the nightclub, is expected to make a formal bail application later this month.
Director Neo Moela's lawyer Zola Majavu said his client had no idea of the alleged violent activities at the club.
“He openly recognises that subject to verification of what had happened in his absence, there can never be a justification for those despicable acts. For that, he apologises for those whose human rights have been trampled upon…unreservedly.”
Moela, accompanied by his father, sat quietly as Majavu told the media that his client had been cooperating with the relevant authorities and was willing to continue assisting police with their investigations.
“The police have not indicated that they are treating him as a suspect. If anything, the police are engaging as a person from whom they can source some information to enable them to decide whatever they want to do. We respect that, and we don’t want to pre-empt the outcome,” Majavu added.
City Press previously reported that two of the club’s silent owners skipped the country amid growing calls for the owners to be held liable.
BOUNCER REMANDED IN CUSTODY
The man accused of being part of a group of about eight security officials involved in the torture of patrons at Zanzou made his second court appearance before the Pretoria Magistrate’s Court on Monday.
He was arrested in Yeoville during a Johannesburg Metro Police Department operation.
READ MORE: Suspect in Zanzou attack alleges police torture
The media was again barred from revealing the identity of the accused as a third identity parade had been planned.
It emerged in court that authorities had traced a seventh victim, and he only managed to make an official statement on Sunday.
Majavu said Moela knew of the arrest but had no links to the suspect.
“We are aware that someone was arrested and appeared in court yesterday. It’s got nothing to do with him. We will just watch that space. It has been reported in the media that other people are being sought, and those other people are not him because he is here. The police know how to get hold of him.”
Several investigations into the establishment are underway, including a compliance probe by the City of Tshwane and the Gauteng Liquor Board.
Majavu has pleaded with the public to allow the law to take its course and respect the sensitivity of those whose rights have been violated.
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