Cape Town — Following shocking revelations about alleged human rights violations at Zanzou nightclub in Pretoria, the club’s owner has issued a public apology to all the victims.
Zanzou nightclub came under intense scrutiny last month after videos surfaced showing club bouncers torturing patrons who had allegedly failed to settle their bills. A week later, police confirmed the arrest of one suspect following an extensive manhunt.
On Tuesday, Zanzou director Neo Moela appeared alongside his attorney, Zola Majavu, to address the incident and clarify his involvement in the club’s operations.
During a media briefing, Majavu issued an apology on Moela’s behalf, stating that his client strongly condemns the events that transpired.
“He does not condone those acts—he condemns them in the strongest terms. However, due to legal constraints, we cannot publicly disclose details of what he has shared with law enforcement agencies,” Majavu said.
He added that Moela acknowledges there can be no justification for the “despicable acts” that took place and extends his sincere apologies to those affected.
“He apologises to those whose human rights have been trampled upon unreservedly, to the extent that these atrocities were perpetuated at an establishment of which he is a director,” he said.
He said Moela was not running away from the incident and said the police could also confirm is cooperation in this matter.
[WATCH] “The owner of Zanzou nightclub says he condemns the violent acts and apologises to the victims and their families.” – Adv. Zola Majavu. #Newzroom405 pic.twitter.com/NcUh8pA50l
— Newzroom Afrika (@Newzroom405) March 4, 2025
He added that the suspect who was previously arrested had nothing to do with Moela.
“We are also aware that someone was already arrested, that has nothing to do with him. We will just watch that space,” he said.
He said he was not among the people being sought by the police as he already committed to engage with the police.
“My client felt, as a South African, it was important to come out in the open and say ‘I am a director of this entity and I am prepared to be held accountable and I am prepared for my role, actions or admissions to be tested,” he said.
“He is not about to leave the country. He is a young entrepreneur with a bright future,” he added.
[WATCH] “We are also aware that someone was arrested in connection with the Zanzou nightclub incident… It has nothing to do with him (Neo Moela, Zanzou nightclub director).” Adv. Zola Majavu. #Newzroom405 pic.twitter.com/kuuKa97S9G
— Newzroom Afrika (@Newzroom405) March 4, 2025
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Compiled by Matthew Petersen
