The Gauteng Liquor Board (GLB) has taken decisive regulatory action against Zanzou, a controversial nightclub in Pretoria, by suspending its liquor licence. This move follows shocking revelations of alleged criminal activities occurring within the establishment, raising serious concerns about public safety and compliance with liquor licensing laws.
Why Was Zanzou’s Liquor Licence Suspended?
On Wednesday, the Department of Economic Development announced that it had revoked the liquor licence of Zoolida (Pty) Ltd, trading as Zanzou. The nightclub came under intense scrutiny after disturbing videos circulated on social media, reportedly shared by a former employee, exposing patrons being subjected to waterboarding and sexual assault.
Some of the videos show men being forced to perform sexual acts on themselves, while others depict individuals being tied up and assaulted. These shocking visuals have sparked outrage and prompted immediate regulatory intervention by the GLB.
Regulatory Breaches and Legal Implications
According to Department of Economic Development spokesperson Cleo Bodibe-Lushaba, the department assessed both the available evidence and Zanzou’s public statement before making its decision.
“The acts of violence and misconduct occurred on the licensed premises, implicating the establishment in serious regulatory breaches. The licensee failed to report the criminal conduct to the South African Police Service (SAPS) as required,” Bodibe-Lushaba stated.
She further noted that Zanzou’s primary concern, as reflected in its media response, appeared to be reputational damage rather than the safety and well-being of the alleged victims.
Given the severity of these findings, the GLB resolved to suspend Zanzou’s liquor licence pending the outcome of a formal inquiry and ongoing police investigations.
Also Read: Police Investigate ‘Inhumane’ Assault at Zanzou Nightclub as Shocking Videos Surface
Police Investigation and Criminal Charges
Law enforcement agencies are actively pursuing suspects connected to the disturbing incidents at Zanzou. News24 reports indicate that police are searching for eight individuals linked to the alleged crimes, while three complainants have come forward.
The SAPS Family Violence, Child Protection, and Sexual Offences Unit is spearheading an investigation into multiple serious charges, including:
- Compelled rape
- Assault
- Crimen injuria
- Intimidation
- Kidnapping
Legal Framework: Gauteng Liquor Act Compliance
The Department of Economic Development emphasized that the GLB has a statutory mandate under the Gauteng Liquor Act No. 2 of 2003 to take action against non-compliance.
Key Legal Points:
- Sections 106(5) and 117(1): Permit the suspension of a liquor licence if the establishment is implicated in misconduct affecting public safety.
- Section 29(1): Requires all liquor licensees to comply with legal obligations.
- Section 45(1): Mandates adherence to national regulations and municipal by-laws.
- Section 127(i): Categorizes any contravention of the Act as a criminal offence.
The department reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring that liquor licence holders operate lawfully and uphold public safety standards.
Public and Industry Reaction
Zanzou’s liquor licence suspension has sparked widespread discussion within the nightlife industry and the broader Gauteng community. Many residents and business owners support the GLB’s decision, arguing that establishments must be held accountable for criminal activities occurring on their premises.
The nightclub’s reputation has suffered a severe blow, and it remains unclear whether Zanzou will be able to recover from this scandal. With an ongoing police investigation and a formal inquiry pending, the future of the establishment hangs in the balance.
The suspension of Zanzou’s liquor licence marks a significant regulatory action by the Gauteng Liquor Board in response to grave allegations of misconduct. As the legal process unfolds, authorities remain committed to ensuring that liquor-licensed venues operate responsibly and prioritize public safety.
For now, Zanzou’s doors remain closed, and the nightclub faces an uncertain future amid growing legal and public scrutiny.
Also Read: Three Zanzou Bar Victims File Charges as Management Denies Unpaid Bill Claims
