Emtee released on bail following protection order dispute

South African rapper Mthembeni ‘Emtee’ Ndevu has been released on R2,000 bail after spending 16 days at the Johannesburg Correctional Centre. His arrest followed allegations of breaching a protection order obtained by his estranged wife, Nicole Chinsamy.

During the proceedings at the Midrand Magistrate’s Court, Chinsamy indicated she would withdraw the case to move forward. While the case was withdrawn, Emtee’s release is subject to strict conditions: he must comply with the existing protection order and is prohibited from posting about Chinsamy on social media, either directly or indirectly. He was also ordered to remove previous social media posts regarding her.

Emtee’s father, Lumikile Ndevu, expressed relief regarding the release, noting that the rapper's incarceration had caused financial strain for his family, including unpaid rent and school fees. Meanwhile, Grammy-winning artist Zakes Bantwini publicly offered prayers for Emtee and his independent label via social media.