The South African Police Service (SAPS) has confirmed that Zimbabwean socialite-turned-musician Malloti Rose is now wanted for armed robbery, sparking widespread attention on social media. The case, dating back to 2017, involves serious charges, and authorities are coordinating efforts to have her arrested and extradited from Zimbabwe to South Africa.
According to a statement from Western Cape SAPS spokesperson Captain F.C. Van Wyk, a warrant of arrest has been issued for Malloti Rose, whose legal name is listed as Namatai Bhobho. The Wynberg Magistrate’s Court struck the case off the roll until she is located and arrested. Van Wyk explained, “The accused is wanted on a case of robbery with a firearm after a Warrant of Arrest was issued in Wynberg court. The case was removed from the court roll until she is traced and arrested.”
The arrest process is being managed in collaboration with the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), who is organizing Malloti Rose’s extradition from Zimbabwe. SAPS has reportedly received information that she is currently residing in Zimbabwe, and authorities there have been asked to assist in executing the arrest.
The news quickly captured the attention of social media users. Following a post by social activist and eTV presenter Yusuf Abramjee on X (formerly Twitter), many netizens voiced confusion about the celebrity’s identity. Some pointed out discrepancies in her legal name. While South African authorities list her as Namatai Bhobho, court records in Zimbabwe have identified her as Millicent Tsitsi Chimonyo. Users also speculated about her whereabouts, with one asking, “Where does she stay? Let’s get her boyfriend.” Another urged authorities to resolve the identity issue before pursuing the arrest.
The alleged armed robbery took place in 2017 under the Rondebosch case number CAS 78/11/2017. In an interview with Zimbabwean podcast host DJ Ollah 7 in January 2025, Malloti Rose spoke about her involvement. She admitted to participating in a group of 16 individuals who robbed a casino but avoided disclosing the exact sum stolen. She claimed that after negotiating with South Africa’s National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), she was granted bail and became a state witness. Malloti explained that she did not return to testify, fearing retaliation from her accomplices for acting as an informant.
Malloti Rose joins a growing list of Zimbabwean celebrities who have faced legal scrutiny while living in South Africa. Over the years, musicians, actors, TV personalities, and other public figures from Zimbabwe have relocated to South Africa, some achieving fame, others encountering challenges with the law. Her case has reignited debates online about accountability and the movement of foreign nationals within the region.
SAPS continues to monitor the situation closely, coordinating with Zimbabwean authorities to ensure that legal procedures are properly followed. The public has been urged to refrain from speculation and allow the justice system to take its course. Malloti Rose’s situation serves as a reminder that cross-border criminal investigations require careful coordination and patience, even when they involve high-profile figures.
As the case unfolds, South Africans and Zimbabweans alike are watching closely, with many awaiting updates on whether Malloti Rose will be arrested and returned to South Africa to face charges. The incident highlights ongoing efforts by law enforcement to tackle serious crimes, regardless of the social status of those involved.
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