Harare – Popular socialite and dancehall personality Millicent Tsitsi Chimonyo, widely known by her stage name Malloti, is set to appear in court today facing charges of cyber bullying. The allegations stem from an incident in June in which she is accused of targeting flamboyant and controversial cleric, Prophet Passion Java, through online platforms.
Malloti, who has cultivated a following both for her vibrant music career and her outspoken online persona, has found herself at the centre of a high-profile legal case that has attracted significant public attention. Sources close to the matter say the charges relate to statements and social media activity allegedly directed at Java, a preacher and entrepreneur known for his lavish lifestyle and polarising commentary.
Her arrest, which reportedly took place on Tuesday, has raised questions about the circumstances surrounding her detention — particularly given her current health condition. The dancehall figure is heavily pregnant and, according to her legal representatives, due to deliver her child within days.
Speaking to H-Metro, Malloti lawyer, Dumisani Mthombeni, expressed concern over the handling of the case and his client’s wellbeing while in custody. He confirmed that Malloti had been held at Machipisa Police Station since Monday afternoon, despite her legal team informing authorities of her delicate medical condition.
“I do confirm that she is currently held in police cells at Machipisa police station since yesterday (Monday) around 4pm,” Mthombeni said. “Client says she was not told of the reason for arrest yesterday and was only told this morning (Wednesday).”
According to Mthombeni, Malloti was informed that the charges against her relate to cyber bullying, with Prophet Passion Java named as the complainant. “It’s alleged she was arrested for cyber bullying and complainant is alleged to be one Passion, and I’m yet to get the full details of the alleged complainant,” he added.
Socialite ‘Malloti’ to Appear in Court Over Cyber Bullying Allegations Against Prophet Passion Java
Her legal team is now working to secure her release, citing both procedural and humanitarian grounds. “Client told me that she is currently unwell and fears for the good health and life of her baby. She is due to deliver anytime this week through inducement due to pregnancy complications,” Mthombeni explained.
The arrest has sparked debate on social media, with some users expressing sympathy for the expectant mother, while others argue that the law must take its course regardless of her personal circumstances. The case also highlights the growing trend of legal action over online disputes in Zimbabwe, where social media has become an increasingly prominent battleground for public figures.
Under Zimbabwean law, cyber bullying is recognised as an offence, particularly when it involves harassment, threats, or abusive messages directed at another person online. While free speech protections exist, they do not extend to conduct deemed to be harmful or defamatory. However, the enforcement of these laws has sometimes been criticised as selective or politically influenced, especially in cases involving public personalities.
Prophet Passion Java, the complainant in this case, is no stranger to controversy himself. Known for his flashy designer outfits, high-end vehicles, and a constant social media presence, Java commands both admiration and criticism in equal measure. His supporters see him as a successful and inspiring figure, while detractors accuse him of courting unnecessary publicity and engaging in provocative public spats.
For Malloti, the charges represent an unexpected twist in what has otherwise been a career marked by musical success, a dedicated fan base, and a reputation for unfiltered self-expression online. In recent months, she had been relatively quiet on social media, reportedly focusing on her pregnancy and preparing for motherhood.
Her court appearance today is expected to shed more light on the exact nature of the allegations, the evidence to be presented, and whether she will be granted bail given her health status. Legal observers note that magistrates often take medical considerations into account when determining whether an accused person should remain in custody pending trial.
The outcome could set an important precedent for how Zimbabwe’s courts handle cases involving alleged online misconduct, particularly when the accused is in a vulnerable state such as advanced pregnancy. It also raises questions about whether certain public disputes are better resolved through civil remedies or mediation rather than criminal prosecution.
As the case unfolds, public attention will remain fixed on the intersection of celebrity culture, social media conflict, and the law. For now, Malloti’s immediate priority — according to her lawyer — is safeguarding her health and that of her unborn child while preparing to defend herself in court.
Source- Bulawayo24
