Former bouncer releases footage of human rights violations at Zanzou nightclub, claims police corruption shields perpetrators.
A former security guard at Zanzou nightclub in Pretoria has released disturbing footage documenting systematic torture of patrons, claiming he secretly recorded over 75 videos of abuse during his seven-year employment. The whistleblower, identifying himself as Pablo, posted the initial exposé on TikTok under the username @pabloizi0.
“I was acting like I was hitting them but at the same time [I’m secretly recording],” Pablo said, explaining he concealed his phone on his chest to document the abuse. “Those people are evil.”
Brigadier Athlenda Mathe, national police spokesperson, confirmed investigations are underway into multiple alleged crimes including rape, assault, kidnapping, and crimen injuria. Three victims filed charges at Brooklyn police station on Monday.
Pablo alleges widespread police corruption protected the perpetrators. “Those people [work] with police, Sunnyside, Brooklyn, all the police are under them, they pay the supervisor and when you open a case against Zanzou, they will delete the case,” he claimed.
Zanzou management released a statement claiming they had dismissed the security personnel responsible and alleged Pablo attempted to extort the establishment. Pablo denies these claims, stating he left voluntarily after receiving his final payment.
The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) staged a protest outside the club demanding its closure and the owner’s arrest. “Such abhorrent behaviour cannot be tolerated in a society that prides itself on upholding human dignity and justice,” said Nkululeko Dunga, the party’s Gauteng chairperson.
The EFF plans to report the incidents to the Human Rights Commission of South Africa. Police have called for additional victims and witnesses to come forward.
Pablo says he faces death threats but intends to release more evidence. “I know right now those people are looking for me… but you guys must know that I will do what is right,” he said.
