Mediamec Amapiano artist Scotts Maphuma, real name Mpho Lebajoa, is making headlines once again—this time for the wrong reasons. The Shayi’Moto hitmaker was reportedly arrested in Mozambique over the weekend, where he was scheduled to perform at a Children’s Day celebration.
Maphuma was billed to headline the annual Children’s Day festival at Lizha Só Festas in Matola, a vibrant suburb of Maputo, on Sunday, June 1. However, he failed to show up for his scheduled performance, sparking outrage among fans and event organizers alike.
The controversy escalated when a video surfaced on social media showing the artist in a police holding cell, prompting widespread speculation and mixed reactions from fans. Mozambican outlet Mz Magazine News posted the video to Instagram with the caption:
🗣️ “Scotts Maphuma é levado a esquadra por não ter chegado a tempo de actuar.”
Translation: “Scotts Maphuma is taken to the police station for not arriving on time to perform.” — Mz Magazine News
According to local reports and fan comments, Maphuma allegedly chose to perform at a royal event first, delaying his appearance at the children’s festival. His absence disappointed many families and young fans who had been eagerly waiting to see him.
One Instagram user voiced their frustration, writing:
🗣️ “Instead of going to perform for children early, he preferred to go to the royal event first, perform for adults; that should have been banned. He should never set foot in Mozambique.”
— @darcia_da_julia_bunitinha (Instagram)
Prior to the incident, Maphuma had taken to Instagram Stories to reassure fans that he was en route to the event:
🗣️ “Matola! I’m on my way, bafethu (guys), I’m on my way to the children’s event. ‘Lizha só festas!’”
— Scotts Maphuma (Instagram Stories)
Despite his online assurances, his absence from the festival triggered disappointment, with some fans even jokingly requesting refunds to buy hamburgers for the children left disheartened.
This incident adds to a growing list of public relations challenges for the Amapiano sensation. Maphuma recently came under fire for what many perceived as arrogant behavior toward fans at performances, including Cotton Fest and Coyotes Lounge in Mbombela.
In response to the criticism, Maphuma issued a public apology on social media:
🗣️ “I want to take a moment to sincerely apologise to all my supporters. I’ve let some of you down, and I take full responsibility. Growth comes with owning your mistakes, and I’m committed to doing better for myself and you. Thank you for still believing in me.”
— Scotts Maphuma
Despite the backlash, several industry peers have expressed support for the young artist, urging him to view these experiences as lessons for growth and reflection. Whether this latest controversy will mark a turning point in his career remains to be seen.
