Zimbabwean businessman Lawrence Chamurwa Mudzinganyama has handed himself over to police at the Randburg Police Station in Johannesburg following a viral video in which he allegedly threatened women at a Sandton restaurant.
Deputy National Police Commissioner Tebello Mosikili confirmed that Mudzinganyama was arrested and subsequently released on warning. He is expected to appear before the Randburg Magistrate’s Court on 1 October 2026 on an intimidation charge. Police say investigations are continuing and more statements and evidence are still being gathered.
The case follows an incident at Vlamo Restaurant at Sandton Gate on Friday, 18 September, where footage circulated on social media showing Mudzinganyama confronting a group of women. Reports state that the confrontation followed an alleged rejection of his advances. The women and the restaurant reported the incident to police, and a case was opened.
Mudzinganyama has since issued a public apology, saying the aggressive and threatening language he used was “unacceptable and unjustifiable”. He also said he would cooperate with law-enforcement authorities.
The controversy has also had consequences for his business interests. Moriel Infrastructure Group announced that it had terminated its association with Mudzinganyama with immediate effect, removing him as its executive chairman and director.
Meanwhile, Transport Minister Barbara Creecy has instructed the board of the South African National Roads Agency (SANRAL) to investigate Moriel Infrastructure Group’s appointment and whether it is complying with its contractual obligations. SANRAL has confirmed that the investigation is underway.
There is also scrutiny of the company’s Construction Industry Development Board (CIDB) gradings. Public Works and Infrastructure Minister Dean Macpherson has asked the CIDB to investigate allegations that Moriel obtained multiple gradings on the same day and whether the applicable requirements were met. These are allegations under investigation and have not been established as wrongdoing.
Mudzinganyama’s residential arrangements have also reportedly changed, with Steyn City Properties terminating his residential lease following the incident.
The matter is now expected to return to court on 1 October, while police continue gathering evidence. Mosikili has stressed that the viral video does not replace the formal investigative and legal process.
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