Tocky Vibes dodges South African arrest

Zim Now Writer

Zimbabwean musician Obey Makamure, better known as Tocky Vibes, has found himself in a legal predicament in South Africa. The artist is being accused of fraud by music promoter Royce Mapaike and faces imminent arrest upon his return to the country.

The dispute stems from a business deal between the two, where Mapaike agreed to fund Tocky Vibes' video shoots in exchange for two live performances. According to Mapaike, he invested nearly R30 000 in the project but Tocky Vibes and his management subsequently ignored his calls and failed to fulfill their end of the bargain.

The matter escalated when Mapaike opened a fraud case against the musician at the Brixton Police Station. The promoter attempted to apprehend Tocky Vibes during two scheduled performances in Johannesburg last weekend, but the musician managed to evade arrest both times.

A dramatic chase ensued, with the artist reportedly hiding in a cold room to avoid capture during his first show. Despite the police's efforts, Tocky Vibes slipped away. The following day, with the help of a lawyer, the musician was granted a temporary reprieve before fleeing back to Zimbabwe on Sunday morning.

Mapaike has vowed to pursue the matter, claiming to have sufficient evidence to support his allegations. He has also confirmed that Tocky Vibes' passport has been flagged, ensuring his arrest upon re-entry into South Africa.

However, Tocky Vibes' camp has vehemently denied the accusations, countering that Mapaike is dishonest and mismanaged the funds. They allege that the promoter failed to honor financial commitments to the video shoot, including payments to models and crew.

Despite the legal troubles, Tocky Vibes managed to deliver impressive performances at both shows, drawing large crowds.