Chantelle Muzanenhamo
Two men accused of raping prominent social media figure Mai Jeremaya have appeared in court , claiming the encounter was consensual and a dispute over payment led to the rape allegations.
Thabo Blessing Dube, 27, and Martin Charlie, 25, were charged with rape on Monday. However, according to court documents filed with the State, the two men insist Mai Jeremaya agreed to have sex for US$20, but later demanded US$500.
“She wanted US$500 but we had agreed on US$20,” the accused told the court, according to reports.
The defense claims Dube acted as a go-between, arranging a meeting between Charlie and Mai Jeremaya at Joina City in town.
“They met at Joina City in town and agreed to have sex for US$20,” the defense states. They then went to a lodge in Eastlea, where the accused allege consensual sexual intercourse took place.
“She removed her clothes, kissed and had sexual intercourse with Charlie,” the duo claimed in court papers.
They further stated that Mai Jeremaya bathed afterwards, took the agreed-upon US$20, and left the lodge in a taxi they helped her find.
According to the accused, the dispute arose when Mai Jeremaya allegedly returned later, demanding US$500.
“She later sent a private investigator, Detective Kedha, to try and get the money. When we refused, a rape report was then made.” their statement reads.
Mai Jeremaya, who waived her right to anonymity, publicly accused Dube and Charlie in a viral video, garnering widespread support online, including from fellow influencer Mai TT.
The magistrate is expected to rule on the bail application today.