Vlamo restaurant has confirmed that a formal case has been opened with the South African Police Service following an incident at its Sandton establishment. The incident involved a man who was filmed threatening women inside the ladies' bathroom. The restaurant's team and the affected women reported the incident to SAPS at midday on September 19, 2026, and a case number was issued. This development has sparked widespread concern and outrage on social media.
The viral video showed the man confronting women inside the ladies' bathroom and making threats against them. The footage spread rapidly across social media, prompting a strong reaction from the public. In the video, the man claims that he owns the restaurant, which Vlamo has strongly denied. The restaurant has clarified that the individual seen in the video is not its owner, an employee, or someone with any ownership or management role at the establishment.
Vlamo has moved to correct claims made by the man during the confrontation. The restaurant has stated that the individual shown in the video has no affiliation with the establishment. The man is heard threatening the women, including saying "I'll murder you now and walk" and "I'll put a bullet in all of you." The women involved are not visible in the footage circulating online. The incident has sparked widespread anger, particularly because the confrontation took place inside a women's bathroom.
The incident has occurred during a period of heightened concern over violence against women in South Africa. Police are separately investigating the deaths of nine women whose bodies have been found in Ekurhuleni since July. Vlamo has said that its immediate concern is the wellbeing of the women involved and that it remains committed to supporting them through the appropriate processes.
Vlamo will introduce more visible security at the restaurant following the incident. The restaurant has stated that visible security personnel will be present on the premises to further maintain a safe environment for all guests and staff. This move aims to prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future and ensure a safe and secure environment for patrons.
The investigation into the incident is now underway, with Vlamo cooperating fully with the authorities. The restaurant has stated that it will continue to provide assistance and information as required. The affected women will provide relevant information and footage to assist with the investigation. Vlamo has also committed to supporting the affected guests while respecting their privacy and dignity.
Vlamo will provide further updates where appropriate as the investigation progresses. The restaurant has expressed its commitment to supporting the affected guests and cooperating with the relevant authorities. The incident has highlighted concerns over safety and security in public establishments, and Vlamo's response aims to address these concerns.
Key points
- The incident occurred during a period of heightened concern over violence against women in South Africa.
- Vlamo will introduce more visible security at the restaurant following the incident.
- The investigation into the incident is now underway, with Vlamo cooperating fully with the authorities.
