Cape Town - The embattled Hank’s Olde Irish pub owners have appointed top Cape lawyer, William Booth, as it claims to be receiving direct threats of intimidation, violence, and damages to person and property.
The establishment’s owners in Bree Street have been receiving a backlash since the weekend after it emerged that a black patron, Thabiso Danca, 25, was allegedly barred entrance to the pub because he was “without a white escort”.
Danca detailed the alleged incident on “First Thursday” night on December 1, when he went to the pub with his white friend. He claimed that while his friend was allowed inside, he was prevented by a bouncer who stated that he needed to be escorted by a white person.
“This came as a shock to me. When I wanted to know what he meant, he explained that people of colour steal and are troublesome,” he said.
Danca claimed he was eventually allowed inside the venue after his friend came outside and acknowledged they were friends. He decided to only stay a few minutes because he felt humiliated, not like a human or good enough, he said.
On Friday, a confrontation between Danca’s friends and the owners ensued, turning into a fist fight that went viral after cellphone video footage was shared on social media.
Police are investigating two assault cases registered at Cape Town Central police station by Danca and his friend, Christopher Logan. The pub owners also lodged a complaint.
The SA Human Rights Commission announced on Tuesday that it was not only going to probe all the allegations, but also request a review of the Right of Admission policy.
In a notice, the pub owners said a current social media campaign targeting them, their venue and staff was based on unfounded, unproven third party information and accusations.
“The venue, owners and our staff have received direct threats of intimidation, violence and damage to persons and property by individuals who have stated in the media that they will be participating in said protest.
“They have also been attempting to incite others to perpetrate acts of violence and damage to property against Hank’s Olde Irish, the owners and staff,” the owners said.
Asked about who intimidated and threatened the owners and whether another case has been opened, Booth would only say: “The matter is sub judice, the owners do not wish to make any comments at this time.”
Cape Times