Vusumuzi Dube
Danisa Masuku
THE guessing game over flamboyant social media influencer Talent Moyo’s mental health is finally over. Two State doctors have certified him mentally fit, clearing the way for his long-awaited trial to begin.
Moyo, who has been making headlines for all the wrong reasons, appeared for routine remand before Bulawayo magistrate Takudzwa Gwazemba where the medical report was tendered. He was officially declared sane and ordered back into custody until 13 October, when his trial on theft charges kicks off.
The 27-year-old, known for his no-filter videos and disruptive antics that have won many content creators thousands of online followers, was arrested two weeks ago after allegedly snatching US$150 from a businesswoman in the city centre.
Despite the seriousness of the charge, Moyo looked unfazed in court. He even flashed his trademark cheeky grin at a cluster of fans who had come to witness the spectacle.
His carefree behaviour, however, was what first sparked doubts about his mental stability. Concerned, the magistrate ordered that Moyo be examined by two Government doctors before the case could move forward.
The doctors’ verdict has left the influencer with no place to hide. His fate now rests with the courts.
The arrest set off a social media firestorm, with netizens split down the middle. Some branded him a menace, while others leapt to his defence.
“Talent is a nuisance. The way he harasses women in town is unacceptable. He needs help or jail time,” one angry Facebook user fumed.
Another supporter countered: “He is just misunderstood. He loves attention, but he is not a thief.”
Court papers paint a dramatic picture of the September 11 incident. The complainant, Value Chivange (38) of Lobengula West, was walking along 6th Avenue near Jason Moyo Street when Moyo allegedly pounced. He is accused of shoving his hands into her pockets before making off with her cash in the middle of the bustling evening crowd.
“The accused unlawfully took US$150 belonging to the complainant with the intent to permanently deprive her of her money,” the State outline reads.
Chivange wasted no time reporting the matter to police, triggering a swift manhunt that ended with Moyo’s arrest. None of the stolen cash was ever recovered.
The case has since turned into a trending topic across Bulawayo, with many pointing to his long history of controversial public stunts and disturbing run-ins with women. For some, the trial is not just about theft, but about holding a troublesome influencer to account.
With the mental health cloud cleared, all eyes are now on 13 October when the court decides if Talent is simply misunderstood or truly a menace who belongs behind bars.
Online Reporter