Chitungwiza police have arrested well-known rapper Maskiri in connection with an alleged goat-selling scam, adding another twist to an unusual but growing trend in Zimbabwe where disputes involving livestock—especially goats—continue to draw national attention. The case has sparked widespread discussion online, partly because Maskiri recently reinvented himself as a livestock farmer, promoting high-value Boer and Kalahari Red breeds on his social media platforms.
According to police sources, the rapper, whose real name is Alishias Musimbe, is being investigated following a complaint filed by a Zimbabwean based in the United States, Tonderai Chisoro. Chisoro alleges that he sent a total of US$1,500 through Mukuru in three separate transfers with the intention of buying goats for his family’s pen back home. The transactions were reportedly processed smoothly, but the livestock he expected to receive never arrived.
Family members in Zimbabwe, acting on Chisoro’s behalf, repeatedly attempted to contact Maskiri to arrange delivery. When their efforts were unsuccessful, they filed a police report under case number CR559/11/25. Investigators began looking into the matter, eventually prompting a carefully planned operation to bring the rapper in for questioning.
Police allegedly used a sting tactic, posing as organisers of a local birthday celebration in search of entertainment. They contacted Maskiri and negotiated a performance fee of US$300. Sources say the musician agreed to the appearance and even informed the supposed organisers that he would bring fellow artist Tererai Mugwadi to make the event more exciting.
The undercover officers contacted him again shortly afterwards, claiming they had managed to raise a US$200 deposit. They invited him to meet them at the Chicken Inn near the Unit C junction in Chitungwiza to finalise payments and logistics. When Maskiri arrived at the fast-food outlet, expecting to secure the booking, he was immediately taken into custody by waiting officers.
Eyewitnesses at the scene described the arrest as sudden and dramatic. Customers and passers-by watched in confusion as police moved quickly to detain the rapper. An InDrive driver, who had reportedly just dropped him off, was seen running after the police vehicle demanding that his fare be settled, adding to the commotion.
Maskiri Detained as Authorities Probe Goat Sale Scheme
Police officials confirmed the arrest but emphasised that investigations remain ongoing. They noted that no funds have been recovered so far, and the matter will be fully examined before any further action is taken. Authorities have not yet clarified whether additional suspects or witnesses will be questioned as part of the inquiry.
The incident comes at a time when goat-related transactions have unexpectedly become a recurring legal issue in the country. Over the past two years, several high-profile businesspeople and public figures have found themselves entangled in court cases linked to livestock deals gone wrong. Among the most prominent examples are businessmen Mike Chimombe and Moses Mpofu, who spent more than a year in remand custody over allegations connected to goat procurement contracts. Their case drew intense media coverage and generated widespread debate about transparency, accountability, and the risks associated with informal or poorly regulated livestock markets.
Agricultural experts note that goats have become an increasingly valuable commodity in Zimbabwe due to rising demand for meat and breeding stock, especially high-end imported varieties. This has created new opportunities for small-scale farmers, but it has also opened the door to disputes, scams and misunderstandings. Many Zimbabweans in the diaspora purchase livestock for their families as long-term investments, making them particularly vulnerable when sellers fail to deliver on promises.
Maskiri’s arrest has therefore amplified public concern about the need for clearer verification processes, better documentation and stronger safeguards to protect buyers. Social media discussions following the news show a mix of shock, humour and frustration, with many users pointing out how unusual it is to see goats repeatedly appear at the centre of legal controversies involving celebrities and business personalities.
For now, Maskiri remains in police custody as detectives continue gathering statements and reviewing financial records. The outcome of the investigation will determine whether formal charges are laid or whether the matter is resolved through restitution or mediation. Police have urged members of the public to be cautious when engaging in livestock purchases, especially when transactions are conducted online or across borders.
As the case unfolds, many will be watching closely to see how one of Zimbabwe’s most recognisable music figures navigates an unexpected controversy—one rooted not in the entertainment world, but in the increasingly complicated business of goats.
SOURCE- BYO24
