Bulawayo Marshal Sues City Bus Bouncer US$40,000 Over Viral Assault

BULAWAYO – A parking marshal employed by Tendy Three Investments (TTI) is suing a City Bus bouncer for US$40,000 following a violent altercation that was captured on video and widely circulated on social media. The plaintiff, Michael Ntini, filed the claim against Samuel Scotfield Matanda after the incident allegedly left him injured and publicly humiliated.

According to court filings, the confrontation occurred on 18 March 2026 along Leopold Takawira Road and Fifth Street, near the Bulawayo Central Police Station. Reports indicate the dispute began after a City Bus vehicle was clamped by Ntini during routine enforcement duties. A video of the altercation, which circulated widely online, allegedly shows Ntini being punched, shoved, and dragged during the confrontation.

In a letter of demand, Ntini’s lawyer, Tanaka Muganyi of Tanaka Law Chambers, said the incident caused both physical harm and reputational damage.

“Our client suffered severe injuries as a result of the assault and endured public humiliation, which was worsened by the circulation of the video on social media,” the letter states.

The legal claim argues that the viral footage significantly amplified the impact of the incident.

“You reduced him in front of his family, diminished his societal standing and left him an embarrassed and disgraced man,” Muganyi wrote.

Matanda, 48, appeared in court on 23 March 2026, facing assault charges. He denied the allegations and provided his account of events.

“After he had clamped our bus, I asked him why he had done so. He told me he would deal with me and referenced previous threats from my colleagues,” Matanda told the court.

However, prosecutor Samuel Mpofu presented a different version, alleging that Matanda initiated the assault.

“Matanda confronted him and grabbed him by the collar before slapping him several times in the face. He also dragged and pushed him,” Mpofu said.

Ntini reportedly sought medical attention following the incident, with a medical report expected to form part of the evidence. Matanda was granted bail of US$200 and ordered not to interfere with witnesses. The matter was remanded to 30 March 2026 for further proceedings.

Beyond financial compensation, Ntini is demanding a public apology from both Matanda and his employer. The legal demand includes:

• A public apology published in The Chronicle

• A recorded video apology to be circulated online

• A sustained public statement from the employer distancing itself from the incident

“Your employer must publicly indicate that it does not condone such behaviour for a period of three months,” the letter states.

The case has drawn widespread attention, highlighting tensions between private parking enforcement teams and public transport operators in urban centres. Legal experts say the outcome could set an important precedent regarding workplace conduct, public accountability, and the legal implications of viral content. As proceedings continue, the case underscores how social media exposure can intensify legal disputes, particularly where allegations of assault and reputational harm intersect.

Bulawayo assault case Tendy Three Investments marshal