‘I will murder you now’: Man in viral Sandton restaurant video arrested, released on warning - IOL

Lawrence Mudzinganyama, the man at the centre of a viral video in which he is allegedly heard threatening women at a Sandton restaurant, was arrested on Sunday and released on warning to appear in the Randburg Magistrate’s Court next month.

SAPS spokesperson Colonel Dimakatso Nevhuhulwi confirmed that Mudzinganyama was arrested on Sunday, September 20.

“The man was arrested this morning, 20 September 2026, and was released on warning to appear before Randburg court on 01 October 2026. Police investigations continue,” Nevhuhulwi said.

The arrest follows footage circulated online over the weekend showing an altercation at Vlamo restaurant in Sandton on Friday, September 18.

In the footage, Mudzinganyama is allegedly heard saying: “I could put a bullet in you now. I do not play. I will murder you now and walk.”

Acting Police Minister Firoz Cachalia had also weighed in on the matter at the Inter-Ministerial Committee (IMC) on Gender-Based Violence and Femicide on Sunday afternoon, revealing that they had prioritised the case.

“There’s a Zimbabwean gentleman, apparently of some wealth, in a Sandton restaurant who openly uttered threats that, the threats, of course, amount to unlawful conduct in our society, in our country,” Cachalia said.

He also said Mudzinganyama’s immigration status should be investigated.

“I think that his status in the country should also be investigated by the Department of Home Affairs and if he’s not here legally, other measures can be considered.

“We are prioritising this case. I understand that his behaviour was outrageous, unacceptable, and he has to understand that. As I’m saying, this is the political leadership that we want this man brought to book.”

Mudzinganyama subsequently issued an apology, saying the language he used was “unacceptable and unjustifiable, regardless of the circumstances that led to the disagreement”.

“I should have exercised restraint, removed myself from the situation and sought assistance from the restaurant’s management. I did not, and I accept responsibility for my words and conduct.” 

He said he would cooperate with law enforcement and undertake a conflict-management programme.

The fallout from the incident has now extended to Mudzinganyama’s position at Moriel Infrastructure Group, where he served as executive chairman and director.

In a statement, the company said its board had resolved to terminate its association with him with immediate effect.

“Mr Mudzinganyama has been removed from both positions. He will no longer represent, speak for or act on behalf of Moriel Infrastructure Group in any capacity,” the company said.

The board said the decision was taken in line with its commitment to “the highest standards of conduct, accountability and respect”.

“The conduct shown in the footage is inconsistent with the organisation’s values,” the company said.

Moriel Infrastructure Group also condemned violence against women and other threatening, abusive, and intimidating conduct.

“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,” it said.

Police investigations into the incident are continuing, with Mudzinganyama expected to appear in the Randburg Magistrate’s Court on October 1.