'We cannot investigate through social media' - SAPS after Sandton restaurant threats - IOL
The police have hit back after the viral Sandton restaurant video, saying officers must gather and assess evidence properly before deciding whether Lawrence Mudzinganyama should face prosecution.
The police say investigators must follow due process and gather evidence before a decision on prosecution can be made after Lawrence Mudzinganyama was arrested over alleged threats against women during a confrontation at a Sandton restaurant.
Mudzinganyama handed himself over at Randburg Police Station, where he was arrested and subsequently released on a warning to appear in court on October 1.
The development comes after a video of an incident at Vlamo restaurant at Sandton Gate went viral, showing Mudzinganyama confronting women inside the ladies’ bathroom and allegedly making threatening remarks.
Mudzinganyama has since apologised for his behaviour, describing the aggressive and threatening language he used as “unacceptable and unjustifiable”.
He said he should have exercised restraint, removed himself from the situation and sought assistance from restaurant management.
“I did not, and I accept responsibility for my words and conduct. I deeply regret the fear and distress I caused, as well as the public concern generated by the footage,” he said.
He also said he recognised the seriousness of his conduct, particularly in a country grappling with high levels of violence against women.
Mudzinganyama said he would co-operate with law enforcement and seek professional guidance, including undertaking a conflict-management programme.
But despite the apology, SAPS said investigators still have to establish the facts and gather evidence before the case can be referred for a prosecution decision.
“The SAPS must conduct its own investigation and gather all the available evidence to establish a prima facie case,” police said.
Once the investigation has been completed, the docket will be submitted to the Senior Public Prosecutor, who will make a decision on whether the matter should proceed with prosecution.
The police response comes as footage of the confrontation continues to circulate online, sparking outrage and renewed concern about threats against women.
The SAPS said it was aware of the videos but stressed that investigators could not simply rely on social media when building a criminal case.
“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,” police said.
The incident comes amid intense national concern over violence against women, including the deaths of nine women in Ekurhuleni in recent months.
Police said allegations of threats, intimidation or criminal conduct would be investigated.
“We cannot conduct investigations through social media. Our responsibility is to investigate, gather the evidence and place that evidence before the courts,” SAPS said.
The police also stressed that women had a right to dignity, safety and respect.
SAPS said it would investigate allegations of threats, intimidation or criminal conduct “properly and without fear or favour”.
