Lawrence Chamurwa Mudzinganyama, 40, appeared in the Randburg Magistrates' Court on Thursday, facing multiple charges related to an incident at Vlamo Restaurant in Sandton on September 18. According to NPA spokesman Kaizer Kganyago, Mudzinganyama was accused of entering the women's toilets, demanding to photograph a witness, and threatening three people with death. The charges include three counts of intimidation, three counts of assault with intent to do grievous bodily harm, three counts of crimen injuria, and one count of fraud.
The state alleges that Mudzinganyama walked into the women's powder room and demanded to take photographs of one of the witnesses. He also allegedly threatened three witnesses with violence and death. Additionally, the crimen injuria charges relate to allegations that he insulted the complainants and impaired their dignity by calling them a derogatory name in front of other people. The fraud charge relates to an allegation that he told the witnesses he was the owner of Vlamo Restaurant, knowing he was not the lawful owner.
Mudzinganyama was arrested at the Randburg police station on September 20 and was initially released on a warning on a single charge of intimidation. However, after further investigation, which included taking witness statements and securing video footage, the state brought additional charges. The state then applied to the court to reconsider his release on a warning and to set bail in the interests of justice. The court granted him R15,000 bail on condition that he report to the Randburg police station once a week and not interfere directly or indirectly with witnesses.
As part of his bail conditions, Mudzinganyama was ordered to hand his passport and any other travel documents to the investigating officer and not to leave Gauteng until the case was finalised. The case was postponed to October 15 for transfer to the regional court. According to Kganyago, the investigation is ongoing, and more charges may be added. The incident at Vlamo Restaurant sparked widespread outrage after a viral video showed Mudzinganyama threatening the women.
The incident led to widespread condemnation, with many calling for action against perpetrators of gender-based violence. The restaurant, Vlamo Restaurant, has since confirmed that a SAPS case was opened, and security measures are being strengthened. The incident also drew the attention of Transport Minister Barbara Creecy, who instructed SANRAL to investigate the appointment and contract compliance of Moriel Infrastructure Group, a company linked to Mudzinganyama.
Mudzinganyama's actions have had significant consequences, including the loss of his lease and company positions. He apologized after the viral video appeared to show him threatening women at the Sandton restaurant. The incident highlights the need for continued efforts to address gender-based violence and ensure that perpetrators are held accountable.
The case will be heard in the regional court on October 15, and Mudzinganyama will be required to adhere to the conditions of his bail. The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of respecting the rights and dignity of all individuals, particularly women.
Key points
- The accused, Lawrence Chamurwa Mudzinganyama, was released on R15,000 bail.
- Mudzinganyama faces multiple charges, including intimidation, assault, and fraud.
- The incident sparked widespread outrage and condemnation, highlighting the need for continued efforts to address gender-based violence.
