The South African Police Service (SAPS) has confirmed that Zimbabwean-born businessman Lawrence Mudzinganyama handed himself in at Randburg Police Station.
His surrender follows the circulation of a video in which he is seen threatening to kill three women at an upmarket bar in Sandton after they allegedly rejected his advances.
The incident occurred on Friday at VLAMO bar and restaurant. The women were in the powder room when Mudzinganyama followed them inside and began threatening them.
The episode was captured on video and subsequently circulated on social media, prompting a wider investigation into his business and immigration status.
In a statement issued on Monday, 21 September, SAPS national spokesperson Brigadier Athlenda Mathe said Mudzinganyama was arrested and subsequently released on a warning to appear in court on 1 October 2026.
Explaining the decision, Mathe said the police must conduct their own investigation and gather all available evidence to establish a prima facie case.
“Once the investigation has been concluded, the docket will be submitted to the Senior Public Prosecutor for a decision on prosecution,” she said. “This is a prosecutorial-led investigation, and the matter was discussed with the prosecutor today.”
Mathe said the SAPS had seen the videos circulating on social media but had to follow correct procedures.
“We have seen the videos circulating on social media. However, the SAPS must follow the correct procedures and ensure that every piece of evidence is properly obtained, assessed and placed before the prosecuting authority,” she said.
“We cannot conduct investigations through social media. Our responsibility is to investigate, gather the evidence and place that evidence before the courts.”
“At the same time, we cannot allow women to be talked down to, threatened, intimidated or subjected to violence. Every woman has the right to dignity, safety and respect.
“Where there are allegations of threats, intimidation or criminal conduct, the SAPS will investigate them properly and without fear or favour.”
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