A man has sparked outrage after he was filmed threatening to shoot and murder three women inside the women’s bathroom at an upmarket restaurant in Sandton, Johannesburg.
The confrontation reportedly occurred at Vlamo Restaurant at Sandton Gate after the women told the man he was not permitted inside the ladies’ bathroom.
In footage circulating on social media, the man can be heard threatening the women after allegedly complaining about how they had rejected his advances.
“I could put a bullet in you now. I do not play. I will murder you now and walk.”
He also allegedly insulted the women, described himself as wealthy and claimed that he could buy the restaurant.
Vlamo confirmed that the confrontation happened at its establishment but said the man was neither employed by nor associated with the restaurant.
Management said he was removed from the premises after staff became aware of the incident. The restaurant is reportedly in contact with the women and has promised to support them through the appropriate processes.
“We remain committed to providing a safe, respectful and welcoming environment for everyone who walks through our doors.”
The government’s Justice, Crime Prevention and Security Cluster has identified the man as Zimbabwean national Lawrence Chamurwa Mudzinganyama and urged the women to open criminal cases against him.
The cluster said a formal complaint could allow authorities to investigate the alleged threats and initiate proceedings to determine whether the man is fit to possess a firearm. It remains unclear whether he was carrying a firearm during the confrontation.
Transport Minister Barbara Creecy has also instructed the South African National Roads Agency’s board to investigate Moriel Infrastructure Group, a company reportedly directed by Mudzinganyama and contracted to Sanral.
The investigation will examine whether the company was lawfully appointed and whether it is fulfilling its contractual obligations.
Authorities have urged victims of threats and intimidation to report such incidents so that the criminal justice process can take its course. No arrest had been publicly confirmed at the time of publication.
