Online Reporter
Bomb Productions has released an official statement addressing allegations made by actress Nirvana Nokwe-Mseleku regarding an incident that allegedly occurred during filming in September 2023 involving actor Bonko Khoza on the set of “Red Ink”.
“Red Ink” is a Showmax drama series that is adapted from Angela Makholwa-Moabelo’s bestselling novel. Makholwa-Moabole’s Britespark Films and Bomb Productions partnered on the drama series that debuted in February 2024.
Bonko Khoza starred as Napoleon Dingiswayo, an imprisoned serial killer, and Nirvana Nokwe-Mseleku portrayed the character of Busi, one of Napoleon’s victims.
Nokwe-Mseleku recently went public with claims that she was violated on set by Khoza when they filmed a violent scene.
Bomb Productions’ statement, issued on May 20, comes days after Khoza publicly denied allegations of sexual misconduct in a statement.
In its response, Bomb Productions said the matter was taken seriously from the moment concerns were raised and that an “extensive process of consultation and investigation” was immediately initiated.
“Sexual abuse is a serious and deeply painful reality in South Africa, and we stand in solidarity with victims and survivors,” the company said.
The production house added that all allegations of abuse or harassment should be handled “through a fair, careful and lawful process for all parties concerned”.
According to the statement, the production’s internal investigation “concluded without sufficient evidence to substantiate the allegations”.
Bomb Productions also outlined several procedures it says were followed before, during, and after filming the scene in question.
Bomb Productions also clarified that the scene was not a sex scene, but rather “a violent scene within a serial killer storyline” in which both actors were fully clothed and no simulated sex was required.
It further claimed that the nature and intensity of the scene had been disclosed to cast members before contracting and that consent and comfort levels were confirmed on multiple occasions throughout rehearsals and filming.
Nokwe-Mseleku, in her detailed statements, explained the measures that were taken before filming the scene, and clearly stated her boundaries, which were agreed upon by all parties, and how Khoza violated them during filming.
The production house said a safety officer was present during rehearsals and filming, and that both actors were informed they could stop the scene or call cut at any stage if they felt uncomfortable.
“There was no indication of anything untoward in any of the rehearsals or during the filming,” the statement read.
Bomb Productions also confirmed that production was halted for the day after the allegation was made and that meetings and consultations were arranged the following day to begin investigating the matter.
The company revealed that Nokwe-Mseleku had requested that producers obtain a formal apology letter from Khoza, but alleged that the actor disputed the claims and declined to provide such a letter.
According to the statement, the investigation involved producers, directors and key personnel who were present on set, while legal counsel and SWIFT were also consulted.
The company added that professional emotional support was offered to Nokwe-Mseleku at the production’s expense. This is in line with Nokwe-Mseleku’s screenshots that she attended therapy, with a therapist of her choice, facilitated by the production company.
“We acknowledge the seriousness of the allegations and the impact this matter has had on both parties,” the statement concluded.
“We have strived to ensure a process that is careful, fair and lawful for both parties.” – IOL
