Bouncer arrested in connection with Zanzou nightclub torture has previous conviction, court told
The 41-year-old was allegedly involved in the physical and sexual assault of a group of young men at the establishment.
The Zanzou nightclub in Pretoria. Picture: Katlego Jiyane/EWN
JOHANNESBURG - It's emerged that the man arrested in connection with the torture of patrons at Zanzou nightclub in Hatfield was previously convicted for shoplifting.
This was revealed during his first appearance in the Pretoria Magistrates Court on Monday.
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The 41-year-old was allegedly involved in the physical and sexual assault of a group of young men at the establishment.
The muscular bouncer wore a face mask during court proceedings, and the media was prohibited from taking any photos of him and his legal team.
When the presiding magistrate inquired about the suspect’s criminal history, the defence revealed that he had been arrested for shoplifting in the past.
The attorney further explained that the shoplifting incident was minor, involving only R300, and occurred five years ago.
National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) spokesperson Lumka Mahanjana said that the State was currently working on gathering additional information about the suspect.
"The State wants to verify that indeed the accused is legally in the country after he submitted the documents to the investigating officer."
The man will return to court next Monday for a formal bail application.