State opposes bail for man accused of Zanzou nightclub torture

State opposes bail for man accused of Zanzou nightclub torture! The State has strongly opposed bail for the 41-year-old Congolese national accused of torturing and s.e.xually assaulting patrons at Zanzou nightclub in Pretoria. Prosecutors argued that releasing him would pose a risk to his safety and increase the likelihood of him fleeing the country.

The accused appeared in the Pretoria Magistrates Court on Friday for a formal bail application. His arrest last month followed the circulation of shocking videos showing young men being physically and sexually assaulted by nightclub bouncers. The footage caused a national outcry, leading to swift police action.

Prosecution: Accused Poses a Flight Risk

One of the key arguments presented by the State against granting bail was the accused’s immigration status.

The court heard that the man entered South Africa without a passport, raising concerns that he could easily evade justice by skipping the country. While he claimed to be in South Africa on an asylum visa, the prosecution argued that this does not guarantee his continued presence in the country or prevent him from fleeing.

“He has no official documentation proving his legal status in South Africa. Without a passport, it will be difficult to track him should he decide to leave the country,” the State argued.

Prosecutors further stated that fugitives in similar cases have successfully crossed borders illegally, and releasing the accused on bail could compromise the case.

Threats and Safety Concerns

In addition to the flight risk, the prosecution expressed concerns for the accused’s personal safety.

The investigating officer revealed that the accused fears retaliation from other bouncers who worked with him at Zanzou nightclub. According to the officer, the suspect disclosed to police that he is afraid of his former colleagues, who might see him as a liability now that he is in police custody.

The court was also informed that the accused’s wife has received suspicious phone calls, further fueling fears that he is being targeted.

“The accused himself has expressed fears for his safety, and it is our position that he is safer behind bars,” the prosecution stated.

The court took note of these claims, suggesting that the threats could have serious implications for both the case and the safety of those involved.

Public Outrage and Case Background

The Zanzou nightclub torture scandal sent shockwaves across South Africa when graphic videos of abuse surfaced online. The disturbing footage allegedly showed nightclub bouncers subjecting patrons to severe physical punishment and s.e.xual assault.

Authorities quickly launched an intensive investigation, leading to the arrest of multiple suspects, including the 41-year-old accused. The case has since drawn significant attention, with human rights groups, activists, and political figures calling for strict action against those involved.

Defense Pushes for Bail

Despite the State’s objections, the accused maintains his innocence and is seeking bail. His legal team insists that he has no intention of fleeing and that he is entitled to a fair trial.

His lawyer argued that his asylum visa proves his legal presence in South Africa and that keeping him in custody would violate his rights.

“My client is not a danger to society, nor is he a flight risk. The accusations against him have not been tested in court, and he deserves the right to be free until proven guilty,” his attorney told the court.

What’s Next?

With strong opposition from the State, the bail hearing has been postponed to next week, when the court will deliver a ruling on whether the accused should be released or remain behind bars.

The decision could have major implications for the case, given the public interest and safety concerns surrounding the accused.

For now, the accused remains in custody, awaiting the next stage of the judicial process in what has become one of South Africa’s most shocking nightclub abuse cases in recent years.