Emtee Released on Bail After 16 Days in Jail as Wife Withdraws Case

• South African rapper Emtee appeared at the Midrand Magistrate's Court on Wednesday after spending 16 days at the Johannesburg Correctional Centre
• His estranged wife Nicole Chinsamy submitted a withdrawal of the case, citing her desire to move forward with her life
• The court granted bail but imposed strict conditions, including a social media restriction relating to Chinsamy

South African rapper Emtee, real name Mthembeni Ndevu, walked free on Wednesday after the Midrand Magistrate's Court granted him R2,000 bail following 16 days behind bars at the Johannesburg Correctional Centre.

The rapper had been arrested for allegedly violating a protection order obtained by his estranged wife, Nicole Chinsamy. His court appearance this week was expected to deal with possible trial proceedings, but a surprise withdrawal changed the course of the day entirely.

Chinsamy withdraws the case

Chinsamy submitted the withdrawal on Monday, and on Wednesday she took to the witness stand to explain her decision. She told the court:

Read also

William Manku reflects on estranged relationship with 'Skeem Saam' star Amanda Manku

"I made the decision to withdraw the case. I'd like to close this chapter and move on with my life.”

Ndevu, for his part, exercised his right to remain silent throughout the proceedings. His attorney, Kwena Manamela, presented an affidavit detailing the financial strain the arrest had placed on Ndevu's family. According to the affidavit, his parents, Lumikile and Phathiswa Ndevu, along with his three minor children, had all been affected. Rental payments and school fees had reportedly fallen behind since he was taken into custody.

Bail conditions and court return

While bail was granted, the court attached firm conditions to Ndevu's release. He is prohibited from posting anything about Chinsamy on social media. However, one previously imposed condition was eased: whereas Ndevu had been completely barred from contacting Chinsamy, he may now communicate with her strictly on matters concerning their three children. Emtee is due back in court on 10 September for further representations.

Read also

TikToker 'Farming Blonde' Luzanne Fouché denies exploiting late Dr Egbert Weis

Emtee issued an apology to his ex-wife

Emtee took to social media to issue a heartfelt public apology addressing his recent behaviour.

The rapper's statement came after he and ex-wife Nicole Chinsamy exchanged heated messages online, with her accusing him of neglecting their children.

Source: Briefly News