GQEBERHA— Gqeberha’s popular dining hotspot, Black Impala is at the centre of a growing scandal as serious allegations of slave-like labour practices have emerged.
The Independent Commission for Human Rights (ICHR) released a damning statement on 20 October 2025, revealing a sharp increase in formal complaints against the restaurant rising from 20 to 140 in just two days. “This sharp rise is deeply alarming and indicative of systemic abuse workers are reporting exploitative working conditions, withheld wages and verbal intimidation,”The ICHR stated.
According to the Commission, the complaints signal a pattern of worker exploitation and labour rights violations that cannot be ignored. As a result, the ICHR has taken steps to hold the establishment accountable.
“We are preparing to approach the South African Liquor Board to request a suspension or revocation of Black Impala’s liquor license under the Eastern Cape Liquor Act (No. 10 of 2003),” the statement read.
Furthermore the ICHR is also pushing for financial transparency, stating, “We request a tax compliance audit by South African Revenue Service(SARS) to ensure Black Impala and its affiliates are meeting tax obligations.”
Efforts to obtain comment from the owners of Black Impala have so far been unsuccessful. The silence has only intensified calls for swift intervention.
In addition one of the few named victims, Mandy Mgcinwa has come forward alleging long hours without pay and degrading treatment.
Although most complainants remain anonymous, the ICHR assured the public that, “All complainants are fully protected and their identities will not be disclosed under any circumstances.”
The Commission is demanding the immediate payment of all outstanding wages and an end to what it described as “All exploitative practices currently ongoing at Black Impala.” The organisation has confirmed it is working in tandem with the South African Police Service (SAPS) and other government agencies to escalate the investigation.
“No business should be allowed to treat workers badly, no matter who they are!” the ICHR emphasised in its closing remarks. “We will not stand by while human dignity is violated in the name of profit.”
The Eastern Cape Daily News will continue to follow this story as new developments arise.
Photographs: supplied
