Police Speak on Lawrence Mudzinganyama Case After Viral Sandton Restaurant Video
- Lawrence Mudzinganyama was arrested after a video allegedly showing him threatening women at a Sandton restaurant went viral
- He apologised for his behaviour and said he accepts responsibility for his words and conduct
- Police say investigators must gather evidence before the case is sent to a prosecutor to decide on possible charges
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GAUTENG - Police have stressed that they must follow due process and gather sufficient evidence before deciding whether Lawrence Mudzinganyama will face prosecution over alleged threats made during a confrontation at a Sandton restaurant.
Mudzinganyama handed himself over to police at Randburg Police Station, where he was arrested and later released on a warning. He is expected to appear in court on 1 October 2026.
Sandton restaurant video sparks outrage
The arrest followed the circulation of a video filmed at Vlamo restaurant at Sandton Gate. The footage appeared to show Mudzinganyama confronting women inside the ladies’ bathroom and allegedly making threatening remarks during the incident.
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Mudzinganyama has since apologised for his conduct, describing his aggressive and threatening language as “unacceptable and unjustifiable”. He acknowledged that he should have walked away from the confrontation and sought assistance from restaurant management instead.
Mudzinganyama said he accepted responsibility for his words and behaviour and regretted the fear and distress caused by the incident. He also acknowledged the seriousness of the incident in a country grappling with high levels of violence against women.
The businessman said he would cooperate with law enforcement and seek professional help, including taking part in a conflict-management programme.
Police explain what happens next
Despite the apology and viral footage, SAPS said investigators still need to establish the facts and collect evidence before the case can be sent to prosecutors.
Police said social media videos could form part of an investigation, but investigators must ensure that evidence is properly obtained and assessed.
“The SAPS must conduct its own investigation and gather all the available evidence to establish a prima facie case,” police said.
Once the investigation is complete, the docket will be submitted to a Senior Public Prosecutor, who will decide whether the matter should proceed with prosecution.
Police said allegations involving threats, intimidation or other criminal conduct would be investigated properly.
The case comes as South Africa continues to grapple with concerns over violence against women, including the deaths of nine women in Ekurhuleni in recent months.
SAPS said women have a right to dignity, safety and respect, adding that allegations of criminal conduct would be investigated “without fear or favour”.
The investigation will now determine whether the evidence gathered supports further criminal proceedings against Mudzinganyama.
Transport minister orders probe to businessman's tenders.
Previously, Briefly News reported that Transport Minister Barbara Creecy separately ordered an investigation into Lawrence Mudzinganyama company's involvement in SANRAL tenders.SANRAL confirmed it would act on the minister's directive, saying it would examine whether Moriel Infrastructure Group was legally appointed and whether the company is honouring its contractual obligations.
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Source: Briefly News
