SANDTON – A Zimbabwean businessman who threatened to kill women at Vlamo Restaurant in Sandton on Friday, 18 September was arrested on Sunday (20 September) on a charge of intimidation.
According to Colonel Dimakatso Nevhuhulwi, a police spokesperson, a case of intimidation was registered on Saturday at the Randburg Police Station.
Lawrence Mudzinganyama was released on police bail and was warned to appear before the Randburg Magistrates Court on 1 October.
At the time of the incident, Mudzinganyama was the Executive Chairman and director for the Moriel Infrastructure Group.
The incident where Mudzinganyama threatened to kill the women was captured on mobile phone. He intimidated them after they refused to respond to his romantic advances.
In the video Mudzinganyama takes on a threatening posture by pointing his finger at the women threatening to kill them and telling them they are poor ladies.
After the video was made public, the Board of Moriel Infrastructure Group issued a statement on its website stating it had resolved to terminate its association with Mudzinganyama with immediate effect, following the disturbing incident at Vlamo Restaurant on Friday evening.
“Mr Mudzinganyama served as the company’s Executive Chairman and a Director. He will no longer represent, speak for, or act on behalf of Moriel Infrastructure Group in any capacity.
“The Board took this decision in accordance with the company’s commitment to the highest standards of conduct, accountability and respect. The behaviour shown in the footage is inconsistent with the organisation’s values.
“Moriel Infrastructure Group unequivocally condemns violence, threats, abuse and intimidation directed at women and vulnerable people. The company recognises the seriousness of gender-based violence in South Africa and remains committed to fostering a safe, respectful and inclusive environment for its employees, stakeholders and the wider community.”
Shortly after the incident, Mudzinganyama issued a statement in which he apologised to the women.
Cat Carstens, Public Relations Officer for Vlamo, says in ‘n statement the Restaurant confirms its team, together with the affected parties, have formally reported the incident to the South African Police Service at midday, 19 September 2026, and a case number has been issued.
“We are co-operating fully with the authorities and the affected parties will provide all relevant information, footage and assistance required to support the investigation and process going forward to bring the perpetrator to justice.
“We must state clearly that the individual shown in the video is not the owner of the restaurant or employee and has no ownership or management role at the establishment. Any suggestion that this individual is the owner is incorrect.
“Going forward, visible security personnel will be present on the premises to further maintain a safe environment for all our guests and staff. We are grateful to the organisations and individuals who have offered their support and assistance following the incident. We welcome efforts that support the women affected.
“We remain committed to supporting the affected guests and co-operating with the relevant authorities and we will allow the appropriate processes to take place. We will continue to co-operate fully with the authorities and provide further updates where appropriate, while respecting the privacy and dignity of those affected.”
