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The South African Human Rights Commission (SAHRC/ the Commission) is aware of disturbing videos circulating on social media in which several people are being subjected to humiliation and sexual assault at Zanzou establishment, in Gauteng. The Commission has also noted a statement issued on 17 February 2025 by Zanzou management confirming the veracity of the videos. 

The acts depicted in the videos infringe on the rights to dignity and bodily integrity of the victims. The Commission wishes to make clear that under any circumstances, there is no justification for what is being depicted in the videos.

The Commission has noted public outrage and calls by different stakeholders for an investigation into the matter. The Commission can confirm that its Gauteng Provincial Office has opened an own accord investigation in line with Complaints Handling Procedure. As part of the investigation, the Commission will meet with the South African Police Service to engage them on the need to put adequate resources to investigate this matter. The Commission calls on the victims and other people who may have witnessed what occurred at the establishment to contact the SAPS and the Commission.

The Commission will robustly engage with the owner of the establishment on detailed steps they have taken upon being aware of the incident, on why a case was not opened with the SAPS, as reported, as part of his managerial responsibility to ensure that perpetrators are held accountable, and on the institutional culture that might have led to this inhuman incident. 

The Commission acknowledges public outrage and interest in this shocking matter. At the same time, the Commission strongly urges the public to refrain from sharing or forwarding images and videos depicting violence or abuse on social media platforms. Such actions may constitute serious offences under South African law, including crimen injuria, which involves the unlawful and intentional impairment of another person's dignity. Additionally, under Section 16 of the Cybercrimes Act 19 of 2020, the unlawful and intentional disclosure of an intimate image of another person without their consent is a criminal offence, carrying severe penalties upon conviction.

Similarly, Section 24E of the Films and Publications Amendment Act 11 of 2019 criminalizes the knowing distribution of private sexual photographs and films without the prior consent of the individuals depicted, with the intent to cause them harm. It is imperative to understand that even forwarding such content, without originating it, can lead to criminal liability. The SAHRC emphasizes the importance of responsible online engagement and respecting the dignity and privacy of all individuals. For comprehensive guidelines on ethical and lawful social media usage, please refer to the SAHRC Social Media Charter available on our website.

The Commission’s Gauteng Provincial Office will work around the clock to ensure that this case receives the necessary attention to ensure that perpetrators of this despicable act are brought to book.

Issued by SAHRC