The South African Police Service (SAPS) has launched a manhunt for at least eight suspects linked to the disturbing Zanzou torture and abuse videos that surfaced online this week.
SAPS escalates efforts to track down eight foreign nationals in Zanzou torture case
The SAPS Family Violence, Child Protection and Sexual Investigations (FCS) unit has taken over the case and is investigating serious charges, including compelled rape, assault, crimen injuria, intimidation, and kidnapping.
National Police Commissioner Fannie Masemola has praised the police’s swift response, saying:
“I am satisfied with the level of response and assure the victims that police will ensure a thorough investigation is conducted to bring perpetrators to book.”
Authorities confirmed that three victims, aged 20, 21, and 22, have come forward so far to report their experiences at the Brooklyn police station.
According to their statements, the attacks occurred in January 2023, when a dispute between them and the club’s security personnel escalated.
The victims allege that they were taken to a storeroom, beaten, and forced to perform degrading sexual acts.
Police believe two more victims are yet to come forward and are working to locate them.
SAPS has also appealed to a man known as “Pablo,” who claims to be a former Zanzou bouncer, to assist in the investigation.
“Pablo has made numerous allegations, and we believe he would be instrumental in solving this case,” police stated.
Zanzou management attempts to remove stock amid investigation
Zanzou nightclub’s management attempted to remove stock and equipment from the premises on Tuesday, but their efforts were blocked by members of the MK Party’s student movement and law enforcement officers.
Police intervened, stating that removing items from the club could interfere with the ongoing investigation. The nightclub, which has faced backlash following the release of the videos, previously claimed that the abuse was carried out by a now-dismissed security company and that the footage was recorded more than three years ago.
“At the time when management became aware of the practices, an immediate investigation was conducted, and those responsible were dismissed,” Zanzou said in a statement.
Despite their claims, the nightclub remains under scrutiny, with public outrage growing.
Calls for the arrest of those involved continue, while authorities intensify efforts to track down the suspects.
