Johannesburg – The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) says it is ready to proceed with the case against businessman Lawrence Chamurwa Mudzinganyama, who is accused of threatening three people with violence and death during an incident at a Sandton restaurant.
The 40-year-old appeared in the Randburg Magistrates’ Court on Thursday, where the matter was postponed to 30 October for a trial date to be determined.
According to IOL, NPA spokesperson Kaizer Kganyago said the prosecution had handed the defence the contents of the case docket and that the matter had been transferred to the regional court for further proceedings.
“The NPA has furnished the defence with the contents of the docket, and the matter has been transferred to the regional court at the Randburg Magistrates’ Court for further proceedings,” Kganyago said.
“The NPA is ready to proceed with the matter and remains committed to ensuring that cases are prosecuted diligently and that all accused persons are afforded a fair trial.”
CHARGED | Lawrence Chamurwa Mudzinganyama has been charged and will make his first appearance in Randburg Magistrates’ Court on the 01 October 2026.
— Justice, Crime Prevention and Security (@CrimeWatch_RSA) September 20, 2026
Mudzinganyama faces three counts of intimidation, three counts of assault with intent to do grievous bodily harm, three counts of crimen injuria and one count of fraud.
The charges stem from an incident that allegedly took place at Vlamo Restaurant at Sandton Gate on 18 September.
According to the state, Mudzinganyama entered the women’s restroom and demanded to take photographs of one of the witnesses. He is also accused of threatening three witnesses with violence and death.
The crimen injuria charges relate to allegations that he insulted the complainants and impaired their dignity by calling them a derogatory name in front of other people.
BREAKING: Lawrence Mudzinganyama arrived early at the magistrates’ court today. His matter has been postponed to 30 October 2026. He is out on R15,000 bail. https://t.co/Gycj9kGWFP
— NOWinSA (@NowInSA) October 15, 2026
The fraud charge stems from an allegation that he falsely represented himself as the restaurant’s owner, despite allegedly knowing that he was not its lawful owner.
The allegations attracted widespread attention after footage of the confrontation circulated on social media.
According to The Citizen the state added charges following further investigations, including the collection of witness statements and video footage.
Mudzinganyama has previously been released on R15,000 bail, subject to conditions including reporting to police weekly, surrendering his travel documents, remaining in Gauteng and not interfering with witnesses.
His bail was extended until his next court appearance on 30 October.
The case is now set to proceed towards trial, although the allegations against Mudzinganyama have yet to be tested in court.
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Compiled by Glaan Sibuyi
