An Exxaro contractor, allegedly involved in a viral video depicting a violent assault on a security guard at East London’s eBuhlanti Marina Glen, has been banned from all Exxaro premises. The incident has sparked widespread condemnation, with police making arrests and a local lawyer offering pro bono legal representation to the victim.
The security guard, 34-year-old Xolisile Nogwele, was reportedly attacked after asking a group of men to move their vehicle, which was obstructing another car from leaving the parking area.
Nogwele recounted the ordeal, stating, "It was meant to be a normal day at work, but everything changed when I asked them to move their car." He described how one of the men grabbed him by the neck, and when he pushed him away in self-defence, others joined in the assault.
Footage captured by a bystander showed Nogwele being attacked by at least four men as he attempted to shield his face. Amidst the violence, women could be heard screaming, pleading with the attackers to stop and urging others to intervene. After the attackers ceased their assault, one of them was seen encouraging onlookers to continue filming and striking poses for the camera.
In the aftermath of the attack, Nogwele expressed his distress, saying, "I pray that the law takes its course. I appreciate the overwhelming support I’ve received since the video went viral. What happened was humiliating and degrading – I even worried that I might lose my job because of this."
Exxaro Resources Limited issued a statement on Wednesday, identifying the alleged assailant as an employee of a contractor, Baagi Technology. The mining giant emphasised its zero-tolerance policy towards such behaviour.
“Exxaro Resources does not tolerate any behaviour that is contrary to our values, and the alleged suspect’s access to our company has been immediately revoked. In line with our code of conduct, Baagi Technology is attending to this matter with the urgency it deserves,” the statement read.
Comment from Baagi Technology will be added once received.
Police have taken swift action, arresting two individuals in connection with the assault. "The suspects, who face charges of common assault, were processed and released on warning on 1 January 2026. They are scheduled to appear in the East London Magistrate’s Court on 7 January 2026," confirmed police spokesperson Brigadier Nobuntu Gantana. Police have indicated that further arrests are likely as the investigation progresses.
Despite being released on warning, the legal repercussions for the alleged attackers may be significant. Thabo Mantyi, the director of Thabo Mantyi Attorneys, has stepped forward to represent Nogwele pro bono, offering his firm's services free of charge.
Mantyi stated, "He must sue. We are taking this matter pro bono." He added that his firm is preparing to institute legal action on Nogwele’s behalf and is actively seeking witnesses to bolster the case. "We are also trying to locate the people who recorded the video, particularly the women seen in the background."
The Buffalo City Metro has also condemned the assault, describing it as unacceptable and warning that violence in public spaces will not be tolerated.
“The municipality is unequivocal in its stance: any form of violence, intimidation or criminal behaviour within our public spaces will be dealt with swiftly and decisively," the metro stated. "Our facilities are meant to be safe, welcoming and accessible to all residents and visitors.”
The municipality urged revellers to enjoy the city responsibly and warned against conduct that disrupts public order or threatens the safety of others. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of upholding the law and ensuring the safety and security of all members of the community.
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