Police are investigating a case of common assault after a manager at an uMhlanga restaurant was allegedly slapped and verbally abused by a doctor from Phoenix following a dispute over the price of tequila. The incident allegedly occurred at Manhattan’s Pub and Grill on Sunday evening, 27 September.
The restaurant owner, who requested to remain anonymous, told the Phoenix Tabloid that the dispute began over the price of a bottle of Don Julio tequila ordered by one of the doctor’s friends. The owner alleged that the doctor objected to the price despite not being responsible for settling the bill.
According to the owner, the situation escalated when restaurant manager Kubendran Bruce Naidoo brought the bill to the table.
“As Bruce walked away from the table, the doctor followed him from behind and began violently slapping him while his back was turned. He was also verbally abusing and swearing at him. Our security personnel had to intervene and prevent the situation from escalating further,” said the owner.
“In response, the doctor told me that he was unhappy with the price of the bottle they had ordered,” he said.
Naidoo was taken to Durban North police station, where a criminal case was opened. The owner said Naidoo received medical treatment for his alleged injuries and that a J88 medical form was completed. He added that the incident was captured on CCTV and that three other staff members allegedly witnessed it.
The owner further alleged that the doctor later contacted him via WhatsApp, expressing a desire to apologise to Naidoo and settle the matter. The doctor also reportedly referred to “internal issues” during their communication.
Speaking to the Phoenix Tabloid, Naidoo said the doctor had arrived with a group that ordered several drinks and meals, questioned a bill totalling approximately R6 000, and claimed that they had been promised a discount.
“They were shocked at the amount and began questioning the bill. They also claimed they had received a discount from my boss. When I checked with him, he knew nothing about the discount, so I went back and informed them of this and one of the men eventually offered to settle the bill in full,” he said.
Naidoo alleged that the doctor followed him as he walked away from the table.
“As I was walking away, the doctor followed me from behind while using vulgar language. He caught up with me and began hitting me from the side of my face.”
Naidoo said he wanted to speak out against the alleged treatment of hospitality workers.
“I am a father of three children and the sole breadwinner for my wife and children. I came to work to serve customers and operate the business. I did not deserve to be treated this way,” he said.
“Being a doctor does not give anyone the right to assault another person. I want my fight for justice to send a message to other staff in the hospitality industry to speak out against people who treat them in this manner,” added Naidoo.
When approached for comment, the doctor said he had sought legal advice and would not provide further information.
“I have sought legal advice from my attorney and have been advised to not give any information. I reserve my rights.”
SAPS eThekwini District spokesperson Captain Carmen Rhynes confirmed that a case had been registered.
“I can confirm a case of common assault has been registered and is currently still under investigation. No arrests have been made at this stage, as the investigation is still ongoing,” said Rhynes.
