Rapper Allicious “Maskiri” Musimbe appeared at the Chitungwiza Magistrates Court yesterday following his arrest in a police sting operation where officers staged a fake birthday party to lure him in.

Although early reports claimed the operation was disguised as a wedding, the court clarified that police had posed as birthday party organisers who had ‘booked’ Maskiri to perform. He was granted US$50 bail and ordered to return to court on December 2. As part of his bail conditions, he must reside at his Chitungwiza address and refrain from interfering with witnesses. His father and a small group of relatives attended the court session.

Maskiri’s arrest arises from a dispute over a goats transaction involving US-based Zimbabwean, Tonderayi Chisoro. Chisoro alleges he sent Maskiri US$1,500 via Mukuru to purchase five Boer and Kalahari Red goats, but after receiving the money, the rapper failed to deliver the animals and eventually cut off communication.

After Chisoro’s relatives filed a complaint at Chitungwiza Police Station (CR559/11/25), police orchestrated a sting operation. Two undercover officers, identified only as Dulani and Mushaninga, pretended to be event organisers and negotiated a US$300 performance fee with Maskiri, who even suggested bringing fellow artist Tererai Mugwadi.

On the day of the operation, officers contacted Maskiri claiming to have secured a US$200 deposit and arranged to meet him at Chicken Inn, Unit C junction. He was arrested on arrival.

Meanwhile, discussions for an out-of-court settlement have begun. The association Maskiri represents, Mash Goats, has reportedly offered to compensate Chisoro with goats to resolve the dispute. Chisoro, also known as “Zimbo Trucker,” confirmed the negotiations:

“The Mash Goats leadership contacted me after the court session and expressed willingness to compensate me with some goat breeds. They will send me videos of the goats in stock, and once I’m satisfied, my team will collect them. They’ve given themselves a deadline of Sunday,” he said.

The case continues pending possible restitution and further court proceedings.