Neo Moela, the director of Zanzou nightclub, addressed the media in Johannesburg today alongside his father and legal representative, Zola Majavu, following widespread allegations that he fled South Africa amid the nightclub torture scandal.
Zanzou Director Recruits Top Practitioner to Clear His Name
Moela denied evading law enforcement and insisted he is fully cooperating with authorities.
“He does not condone those acts. In fact, he condemns them in the strongest terms,” Majavu stated during the press briefing.
However, he emphasized that Moela would not disclose specific details of his discussions with the police, citing the sensitive nature of the ongoing investigation.
According to Majavu, Moela was unaware of the alleged abuse, which reportedly took place over a three-year period at Zanzou nightclub in Pretoria.
“We now know that this incident has been ongoing for about three years. He had no knowledge of it. We understand the criminal and civil liability,” the lawyer explained.
Reports emerged last week suggesting that Moela and his business partners had left the country following the circulation of disturbing videos showing patrons being assaulted at Zanzou.
In response, Majavu stated, “He is not running away. He is fully cooperating. If at the end of the investigation, he becomes a person of interest, he will cooperate just like any other natural citizen.”
The City of Tshwane previously alleged that Zanzou was operating illegally. While Majavu neither confirmed nor denied this claim, he stated that Moela had submitted all required documents as part of an ongoing municipal investigation into potential by-law violations.
Meanwhile, businessman Stephane Cohen, who previously owned the building when it operated as Moloko nightclub, distanced himself from Zanzou, saying he had no involvement in its management.
“I stand with the victims and encourage them to seek justice,” Cohen said, adding that false allegations against him had led to threats against his other businesses.
What’s the latest in the Zanzou Nightclub torture case?
A 41-year-old Congolese national remains in custody after appearing in the Pretoria Magistrate’s Court on multiple charges, including compelled sexual assault and assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm. The court has postponed the case to 28 March 2025 as investigations continue.
The suspect was arrested last Thursday in Yeoville, Johannesburg, after police identified him from viral footage depicting the abuse of patrons at Zanzou.
Six victims have since come forward, detailing assaults that allegedly took place in April 2022 and January 2023.
Prosecutors previously stated that more suspects are being pursued, and additional charges could be added. Law enforcement continues to investigate whether the club violated city by-laws and whether further arrests are necessary.
