State opposes bail for Zanzou nightclub bouncer accused of violent crimes! The State has urged the Pretoria Magistrates’ Court to deny bail to a 41-year-old Congolese national accused of committing violent and sexually degrading acts at Zanzou nightclub. Prosecutors emphasized the severity of the charges against him, arguing that the nature of his alleged crimes should outweigh any arguments in favor of his release.
Bail Hearing and Arguments from Both Sides
The accused returned to court on Thursday for his bail hearing, where he attempted to convince the court that he poses no flight risk and should be granted bail.
His legal representatives argued that:
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There is no evidence suggesting he would commit further crimes if released.
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He is not a flight risk, as he is awaiting an asylum seeker’s permit.
However, the State countered these claims, insisting that his alleged crimes, particularly the sexual violations that took place at the nightclub, make him too dangerous to be granted bail.
The Disturbing Allegations Against the Accused
The accused bouncer was arrested last month after disturbing videos surfaced online, allegedly showing young men at Zanzou nightclub being sexually violated by bouncers. The footage sparked outrage and led to a police investigation that resulted in the suspect’s apprehension.
One of the most horrifying allegations against the accused involves forcing victims to sodomize one another. The State argues that the extreme violent and degrading nature of these allegations means he should not be allowed back into society while awaiting trial.
Identity Parade and Strength of the Case Against the Accused
During the hearing, the State revealed that the accused had already been identified by a victim in an identity parade, strengthening the case against him.
This was a significant development, as it demonstrated that at least one victim had directly linked him to the crimes, further undermining his legal team’s arguments for bail.
Prosecutors pointed out that:
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The accused had been positively identified by a victim.
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The evidence against him is substantial.
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Given the violent nature of the crimes, granting him bail poses a risk to public safety.
Charges the Accused is Facing
The bouncer is facing multiple charges, including:
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Eight counts of compelled assault (forcing others to commit acts of violence).
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Five counts of assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm.
The State argues that the court must consider the gravity of the charges in totality, as these offenses involve serious physical and psychological harm inflicted on the victims.
State’s Push for Justice and Public Outrage
The case has sparked public outrage, with many South Africans demanding justice for the victims. The State’s stance reflects the wider concern that cases involving gender-based violence and sexual abuse must be treated with the utmost seriousness.
Prosecutors are expected to continue their fight to keep the accused behind bars, arguing that his release could intimidate victims and potentially lead to further harm.
Court’s Final Decision on Bail Pending
The Magistrates’ Court has yet to make a final ruling on the bail application, but the State’s opposition and the seriousness of the allegations suggest that bail is unlikely to be granted.
As the case unfolds, South Africans will be watching closely, hoping that justice is served for the victims of the shocking crimes committed at Zanzou nightclub.