Zimbabwean national, Lawrence Mudzinganyama, appeared in the Randburg Magistrate’s Court on June 13 to face ten charges stemming from an incident at a restaurant in Sandton, Johannesburg. The 40-year-old businessman was arrested following allegations of threats and property damage.
Phindi Mjonondwane, a spokesperson for the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), confirmed the charges against Mudzinganyama. According to the NPA, the charges include pointing a firearm, intimidation, resisting arrest, assault, possession of an unlicensed firearm, handling a firearm while under the influence of a substance, malicious damage to property, and reckless and negligent driving.
The charges relate to an event that authorities state occurred at the Tang Restaurant in Sandton. According to reports from law enforcement, the incident began after Mudzinganyama’s payment card was declined. He is alleged to have subsequently threatened several women and damaged a point-of-sale machine at the establishment.
Police were dispatched to the location. Upon their arrival, Mudzinganyama allegedly resisted arrest and assaulted a police officer before leaving the scene in his vehicle. Authorities reported that a police pursuit followed.
During his brief court appearance, the case was postponed to June 20 to allow for a formal bail application. Mjonondwane confirmed that Mudzinganyama will remain in custody until his next scheduled court date.
