Case opened against Shaun 101 Street bash organisers, MMC says ‘He Must Face the Music’

A formal case has been opened against the organisers of the controversial Shaun 101 street bash, the Johannesburg MMC for Public Safety, Community Emergency Services and Disaster Management said on Sunday.

Maphefo Mogale confirmed that the City has taken action after a wave of complaints from residents and businesses about the event’s impact on public safety, noise levels, alcohol abuse and violence. “He must face the music,” Mogale said, referring to those responsible for staging the street bash.

The Shaun 101 event, which drew large crowds in parts of Joburg over the weekend, was widely criticised for spiralling out of control. Residents reported loud music late into the night, unlawful trading and open consumption of alcohol, while some businesses described the scene as disorderly and unsafe.

City authorities said the organisers failed to comply with required permits and did not follow conditions attached to approvals, prompting the decision to open a case. Mogale emphasised that large public gatherings must adhere strictly to regulations designed to protect communities and prevent harm.

“We will not tolerate unlawful events that disrupt communities, put lives at risk and undermine public order,” Mogale said. She added that law enforcement and municipal enforcement units would continue to monitor similar gatherings and step up inspections to ensure compliance.

The City’s move comes amid broader concerns about informal and unregulated events in Johannesburg, where rapid growth in street parties and festivals has at times overwhelmed security, waste management and traffic control capacities.

Residents welcomed the announcement, saying they hope it signals firmer enforcement going forward. “We deserve to sleep at night and feel safe on our streets,” one local said.

Mogale also encouraged anyone with footage or information related to the event’s organisation to share it with authorities as part of the ongoing investigation. “We want to ensure that those responsible are identified and held accountable under the law,” she said.