NPA Engages Interpol to Trace Fugitive Linked to Malloti in 2017 Armed Robbery Case
The National Prosecuting Authority has confirmed that it has contacted Interpol to trace a fugitive wanted in connection with a 2017 Western Cape armed robbery case linked to Zimbabwean musician Malloti. Authorities say the move marks a key step toward initiating an extradition process once the suspect’s location is confirmed. The case, which has remained unresolved for years, has now escalated into an international manhunt as law enforcement agencies intensify efforts to bring the accused before the courts.
According to NPA Western Cape spokesperson Eric Ntabazalila, the prosecuting authority has received the docket and begun formal procedures to trace the fugitive. He stated that the whereabouts of the suspect remain unknown, prompting the involvement of Interpol to assist in cross-border tracking. Once the individual is located, the office of the Director of Public Prosecutions will proceed with drafting an extradition request. This step is critical in ensuring that the accused can face charges in South Africa.
The case originates from an armed robbery incident registered under a 2017 docket in Rondebosch, with a warrant of arrest issued by the Wynberg Magistrate’s Court. The South African Police Service confirmed that the accused, identified on the warrant as Namatai Bhobho, is wanted for robbery with a firearm. Authorities have not disclosed full details of the alleged crime, but the seriousness of the charge has placed the matter under close scrutiny. The case was removed from the court roll pending the arrest of the suspect, meaning proceedings cannot continue until the individual is apprehended.
Confusion around the suspect’s identity has added complexity to the case. While the South African warrant names Namatai Bhobho, Zimbabwean reports have previously identified Malloti by her real name, Millicent Chimonyo, in separate legal matters. Authorities have not confirmed whether the two identities refer to the same person. Despite this, Malloti has maintained a visible public presence as a performer and social media personality, even acknowledging in past interviews that she is wanted in South Africa.
The musician’s legal history extends beyond this case. She has appeared in Zimbabwean courts on unrelated charges and has been involved in public disputes, including a widely reported clash with Passion Java. Reports have also linked her to controversy surrounding the alleged misuse of BronCleer, a banned cough mixture. These incidents have kept her in the spotlight, adding to public interest in the current case.
With Interpol now engaged, the legal process has entered a critical phase. If the fugitive is located, extradition proceedings will depend on cooperation between South Africa and the country where the suspect is found. Courts in that jurisdiction will decide whether the individual should be returned to South Africa to face trial. The case highlights the growing role of international law enforcement collaboration in addressing cross-border crime and ensuring accountability.
