Bongo star Matonya charged with rape in Mombasa, freed on Sh500,000 bond

Tanzanian Bongo Flava artiste Matonya has been charged with rape in a Mombasa court and released on a Sh500,000 bond as investigations into the case continue.

The musician, whose real name is Sefu Shabani Ramadhan, appeared before the Shanzu Law Courts where he denied the charge when it was read out before a magistrate.

According to the prosecution, the alleged offence took place within Mombasa, although specific details surrounding the incident were not immediately disclosed in court.

Prosecutors told the court that the matter remains under active investigation and urged that the case proceed through the judicial process.

The complainant’s identity has been withheld for legal reasons.

Following his plea, the court granted Matonya release on a cash bond of Sh500,000, allowing him to remain out of custody pending the hearing and determination of the case.

The prosecution did not oppose his release but underscored the gravity of the allegations.

As part of the bond terms, the court directed the artiste to attend all scheduled court sessions and refrain from any actions that could interfere with witnesses or the ongoing investigations.

The case has attracted public attention due to Matonya’s prominence in the East African music scene, with fans and observers closely monitoring developments.

The court is expected to set a hearing date during which the prosecution will present evidence and witnesses as the trial begins.