Zanzou assault: Congolese bouncer granted R10k bail

The Congolese man accused of assaulting and torturing patrons at the Zanzou nightclub in Pretoria will be released from custody after he was granted R10 000 bail.

The 41-year-old suspect appeared in the Pretoria Magistrate’s Court on Wednesday for the outcome of his bail application.

The magistrate ruled in his favour, stating that the accused had demonstrated that his release would serve the interests of justice.

ALSO READ: Police not treating Zanzou nightclub director as a suspect, says lawyer

The court also found no reason to believe he would evade trial, noting his asylum seeker status in South Africa.

The case was postponed to 5 May for further investigation.

Zanzou assault suspect’s bail hearing

In his bail application, the accused argued that remaining in custody would exacerbate his family’s financial hardship, as he is the primary breadwinner.

He contended that his monthly income of R15 000, earned through his work as a general labourer and part-time bouncer, was vital to support his wife and three children living in Sunnyside.

The accused also claimed he was subjected to police brutality during his arrest.

The 41-year-old man previously claimed that he was robbed of his belongings, including money, following his arrest in Yeoville, Johannesburg, in February.

READ MORE: Man accused in Zanzou assault case claims police brutality

Additionally, the accused stated his intention to plead not guilty during the trial.

The Congolese national is facing multiple charges, including eight counts of compelled sexual assault and six counts of assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm (GBH), in connection with the incidents at the nightclub in Hatfield.

He was arrested after graphic videos of the assault incidents circulated on social media in February, sparking national outrage.

The suspect is one of at least eight individuals being sought by law enforcement in relation to the case.