Businessman arrested after Sandton restaurant threats loses lease and company positions - IOL

Businessman Lawrence Chamurwa Mudzinganyima is facing the consequences of his actions.

The businessman who threatened women at an upscale restaurant in Sandton has issued an apology; however, he is facing several consequences due to his actions.

This follows extensive backlash after the incident, which was filmed at Vlamo restaurant and went viral over the weekend. 

The businessman has been identified as Lawrence Chamurwa Mudzinganyima. 

In a statement released, Mudzinganyima apologised for his behaviour and the distress it may have caused. 

“The aggressive and threatening language I 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.

Mudzinganyima said he recognised the seriousness of his conduct, particularly in a country confronting unacceptable levels of violence against women. 

“I understand the anger and alarm the incident has caused. I will co-operate fully with law enforcement authorities regarding any investigation into the incident." 

He said he was seeking professional guidance and would undertake an appropriate conflict-management programme to assist him in responding to conflict and frustration more constructively. 

Police in Gauteng confirmed a criminal case was opened. 

Spokesperson Colonel Dimakatso Nevhuhulwi said Mudzinganyama was arrested on Sunday.

“An intimidation case was registered on September 19, 2026 at Randburg police station. The suspect was arrested on Sunday morning, September 20, 2026 and was released on warning to appear before Randburg court on October 1, 2026. Police investigations continue,” Nevhuhulwi said. 

In a statement, Steyn City Properties also confirmed Mudzinganyima as one of their tenants and strongly condemned any act of violence or intimidation. 

The company said it had terminated Mudzinganyima’s lease agreement. 

Moriel Infrastructure Group, where Mudzinganyama served as chairman and director, has also severed ties with him, effective immediately. 

“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 He will no longer represent, speak for, or act on behalf of Moriel Infrastructure Group in any capacity,” it said in a statement. 

The group condemned the actions of their former executive. 

“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. 

Transport Minister Barbara Creecy has since directed the board of the South African National Roads Agency (SANRAL) to establish whether Moriel Infrastructure Group was appointed in accordance with the law and whether the company is meeting the terms of its contract. 

Public Works and Infrastructure Minister Dean Macpherson directed the Construction Industry Development Board (CIDB) to immediately investigate allegations that Moriel Infrastructure Group had obtained multiple CIDB gradings on the same day.

In a statement on Sunday, Macpherson said further allegations suggest that the company may not have met the requirements for the gradings, which were allegedly subsequently used to secure contracts from various spheres of government.

Macpherson instructed the CIDB to investigate the circumstances surrounding the gradings and report back to him at the earliest opportunity.

The company came under scrutiny following a viral video involving Mudzinganyima at Vlamo restaurant at Sandton Gate.

In the footage, Mudzinganyima is heard making threats against women, including statements such as, “I’ll murder you now and walk” and “I’ll put a bullet in all of you.” He is also heard claiming to be wealthy and saying that he could buy the restaurant.

The incident reportedly took place inside the restaurant’s ladies’ bathroom on Friday. 

Vlamo distanced itself from the businessman, saying he was not affiliated with, employed by or associated with the restaurant. The establishment said Mudzinganyima was removed from the premises once management became aware of the incident and that it remained committed to the safety and well-being of its guests and staff.

The restaurant filed the criminal charges against Mudzinganyima. 

Vlamo said it was co-operating fully with the authorities and the women involved would provide relevant information and footage to assist with the investigation.