MAPUTO, MOZAMBIQUE – Amapiano star Scotts Maphuma found himself at the center of an international scandal after being arrested in Mozambique for failing to show up for a paid performance. The incident has caused major waves online, drawing mixed reactions across South Africa and beyond.
✈️ Missed Flight, Missed Gig, Major Consequences
The Yebo Lapha and eGoli hitmaker failed to appear at a booked event, claiming a missed flight was to blame. Unfortunately, that explanation didn’t fly with local authorities or event organizers in Mozambique—landing him behind bars.
After his release, Maphuma held a press conference in Maputo, where he issued a public apology and vowed that the no-show would never happen again.
“I’d love to apologise to my fans who really love me and my music… We missed our flight because of work, but we tried. We never gave up,” said Maphuma in a widely circulated Buzz Life News video.
💸 Paying It Back and Owning Up
In a rare move for public figures, Maphuma promised to reimburse the promoter, stating he was returning to South Africa empty-handed:
“Feelings are hurt. A lot has happened. I am a man of my word. I believe in the truth, and I think it’s fair if I pay them back their money.”
The apology, though sincere, sparked fierce reactions across Mzansi.
🇿🇦 Mzansi Reacts: “Mozambicans Don’t Play!”
Social media exploded with varied opinions. Some defended Maphuma, others criticized his professionalism, and many were simply in awe of how Mozambique didn’t hesitate to hold him accountable.
Here’s a snapshot of what South Africans had to say:
- @MoreTwoLyf: “Can they please book Kelvin Momo – I want to see something.”
- @Chris_Exfail: “Nah seriously boycott Mozambique. The way they treated our boy, Scotts, was horrible.”
- @AlunamdaNocanda: “I won’t even apologise.”
- @TrickyRedDevs: “Should’ve detained him longer. They don’t respect consumers once they’re famous.”
- @LizaNjee: “Under which charge was he arrested? What law? Hayi bayamqhela shame.”
- @Silumkojojo: “Mozambicans don’t play 🤣🤣”
📉 A Lesson in Accountability?
From being given the cold shoulder on stage to getting locked up abroad, Scotts Maphuma’s rough patch seems far from over. Still, fans and critics agree—Mozambique delivered a harsh reality check, one that may change how African artists handle international gigs.
