Zimbabwean businessman Lawrence Mudzinganyama, 40, now faces 10 criminal charges following an alleged confrontation with women at a Johannesburg restaurant.
The case follows a viral video that appeared to show him threatening several women at Vlamo Restaurant in Randburg.
Authorities initially charged Mudzinganyama with intimidation. However, investigators later added nine charges after reviewing witness statements and video evidence.
National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) spokesperson Kaizer Kganyago confirmed the additional charges.
These include three counts of intimidation, three counts of assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm, three counts of crimen injuria and one count of fraud.
Viral Video Sparks Multiple Charges
Police arrested Mudzinganyama at Randburg Police Station on 20 September 2026. Authorities initially released him on a warning while investigating the allegations.
The viral footage reportedly captured the businessman confronting women who had allegedly rejected his advances.
During the confrontation, he allegedly made threats against the women.
In the video, he is heard saying: “I could put a bullet in you now. I do not play. I will murder you now and walk.”
Meanwhile, the NPA explained the basis for the crimen injuria charges. Prosecutors allege that Mudzinganyama insulted the complainants with a derogatory name in front of other people.
The fraud charge stems from a separate allegation involving the restaurant’s ownership. According to the State, he allegedly claimed ownership of Vlamo Restaurant when speaking to witnesses, despite knowing he was not the owner.
Following the video’s circulation, Mudzinganyama issued a public apology.
“I apologise unreservedly to the women involved in the recent incident at Vlamo restaurant in Sandton,” he said.
“I should have walked away and asked the restaurant’s management for help. I did not, and I accept responsibility for my words and conduct.”
Court Postpones Case to 30 October
Mudzinganyama recently appeared before the Randburg Magistrate’s Court, where the court released him on R15,000 bail.
The NPA confirmed that prosecutors have provided the defence with the contents of the docket.
Furthermore, authorities transferred the matter to the Regional Court at Randburg for further proceedings.
The defence requested additional time to consult with Mudzinganyama. Consequently, the court postponed the case to 30 October 2026 to set a trial date.
The court also extended his bail until his next appearance.
Mudzinganyama now awaits further proceedings as the case moves towards the trial-setting stage. The allegations remain subject to the court process.