Lawrence Mudzinganyama, a South African businessman, has been arrested after handing himself over to police following the circulation of a viral video in which he threatened to shoot and kill a group of women at a Sandton restaurant. The video, recorded at Vlamo Restaurant in Sandton Gate, shows Mudzinganyama confronting a group of women in what appears to be the women’s restroom. In the video, he threatens the women, boasting about his wealth and claiming he can get away with the crime.
Addressing the media on Monday outside the Boksburg magistrate’s court, deputy national police commissioner Lt-Gen Tebello Mosikili said Mudzinganyama handed himself over at the Randburg police station and was subsequently released on a warning to appear in court on October 1. Mosikili emphasized that the police must conduct their own investigation and gather all available evidence to establish a prima facie case. The investigation will be a prosecutorial-led process, which has already been discussed with a prosecutor.
The incident sparked widespread outrage, with many condemning Mudzinganyama’s actions as unacceptable and misogynistic. Minister in the presidency for women, youth and persons with disabilities Sindisiwe Chikunga called on Mudzinganyama to hand himself over to police, stating that the interministerial committee on gender-based violence and femicide wanted him to surrender “as a matter of urgency”. Chikunga added that “the law will find him no matter how rich he is”.
Mudzinganyama has since apologized for his conduct, describing the aggressive and threatening language he used as “unacceptable and unjustifiable”. He expressed deep regret for the fear and distress caused, acknowledging that an apology could not erase the impact of his conduct. The incident has raised concerns about the safety and dignity of women in public spaces, with many calling for greater accountability and action to prevent gender-based violence.
The incident has also placed Mudzinganyama’s business interests under scrutiny. Moriel Infrastructure Group removed him as executive chair and director, while transport minister Barbara Creecy instructed Sanral to investigate whether the company was lawfully appointed and whether it was meeting its contractual obligations. The investigation will examine whether Mudzinganyama’s business dealings were legitimate and whether he had any connections to other individuals or entities.
Mosikili stressed that threats and intimidation directed at women would not be tolerated, emphasizing that every woman has the right to dignity, safety, and respect. She stated that the SAPS would investigate allegations of threats, intimidation, or criminal conduct properly and without fear or favor. The police will gather and assess all available evidence before the docket is handed to prosecutors.
The case highlights the need for greater awareness and action to prevent gender-based violence and promote a culture of respect and dignity for women. Mudzinganyama’s arrest and subsequent court appearance are expected to send a strong message that such behavior will not be tolerated in South Africa. The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of promoting a culture of respect, empathy, and understanding.
Key points
- Mudzinganyama was arrested after handing himself over to police following the circulation of a viral video in which he threatened to shoot and kill a group of women at a Sandton restaurant.
- The incident sparked widespread outrage, with many condemning Mudzinganyama’s actions as unacceptable and misogynistic.
- Mudzinganyama has since apologized for his conduct, describing the aggressive and threatening language he used as “unacceptable and unjustifiable”.
