Social media is abuzz after a video surfaced showing alleged bouncers from an establishment on Second Avenue in the Bloemfontein suburb of Westdene, assaulting a civilian.

A suspect has been arrested for the murder of a man found on Monday (22/7) in a parking lot across from various nightlife spots in Second Avenue, Westdene.

The suspect (31) is believed to be one of the individuals who assaulted the deceased. The victim’s identity is still unknown. “The deceased was in the company of another man during the attack, who managed to escape,” said Thabo Covane, Free State police spokesperson.

‘Worse, you drag a lifeless body through the road and just dump it’

Social media comments, such as Bongani Zwane's, read: “Those bouncers were unnecessary, inhumane, and barbaric in their approach. Bouncers are there to protect us, not kill us. Why fight someone who is running away, especially someone drunk? 

“Worse, it’s three of you against a skinny, lifeless body. Worse, you drag a lifeless body through the road and just dump it, leave the body there, and don’t even report this incident to law enforcement or your bosses, the club owners.”

A press statement was released by the management of The Other Venue, known as TOV, to their staff and patrons.

“On Monday, 22 July, we received information about an assault just outside our premises, which tragically resulted in the death of a civilian. We immediately contacted the Bloemfontein SAPS, conducted interviews, and provided CCTV footage and other relevant information, leading to an arrest.

“We are deeply disgraced by the senseless nature of this crime. We send this update to ensure you, our staff, that we are fully compliant with law enforcement with the goal of justice for the victim and ensuring that your ability to feed your families is not destroyed due to the actions of bad actors within our community,” read the statement from TOV.

‘I don't believe it justifies taking a man’s life’

Another social media user, Bangilizwe Msikinya, commented, “Two years ago, I raised concerns about the bouncers at TOV, and today, I hear they are being accused of killing someone. While I may not know all the details leading up to the altercation, I don't believe it justifies taking a man’s life.”

The police request that the friend who managed to escape the attack, contact Captain David Ramasoala at 082 468 1624 to provide details that may assist in identifying the deceased.

Any other information that can help with the investigation can be submitted on the MySAPS App or by calling the SAPS Crime Stop number 08600 10111.

UPDATE: “A second suspect (27) has been arrested for the murder of a man found in a parking lot across from various nightlife spots in Second Avenue, Westdene.

“The victim remains unidentified.”

OFM News/Heidre Malgas cg