Popular Amapiano DJ and producer JazziQ found himself embroiled in controversy following allegations of sexual harassment by YFM producer Ngcebo Mcobothi.
Woman accuses JazziQ of sexual harassment
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Mcobothi took to Twitter to share her troubling experience with JazziQ. In now-deleted tweets, she alleged that the DJ had tried to force himself on her.
“This guy literally grabbed me by the waist trying to kiss me ngenkani the way I had to push him away from me, while we were in a lift!” she tweeted.
She further expressed her distress by stating, “I’m so triggered! Not me being sexually harassed by one of your faves after rejecting his advances.”
These tweets quickly spread across social media, leading to public outcry and debates.
Many fans were shocked, and some demanded accountability from JazziQ. The incident allegedly took place at the YFM offices just before JazziQ’s scheduled interview.
YFM issues statement on the incident
YFM responded to the incident with an official statement, distancing itself from Mcobothi’s allegations.
The station clarified that Mcobothi is an external producer and freelancer, emphasising that her views and actions do not represent the company.
“We note that your letter required us to respond by close of business on Monday 27 May 2024. However, given that your letter was only received by us at 14h36 on Monday 27 May, we trust we are in order by responding today,” YFM’s statement read.
They also mentioned checking their internal CCTV footage but found no evidence from the lifts as they do not contain cameras.
The station offered to share other footage showing Mcobothi and JazziQ entering and exiting the lifts.
JazziQ deads sexual harassment claims with evidence
A statement from JazziQ detailed his movements and interactions during the incident.
Video evidence from his videographer showed Mcobothi entering the building and the lift along with JazziQ and his team, as well as another artist.
It highlighted three crucial points: JazziQ was never alone with Mcobothi, there were at least five other people in the lift, and the lift journey took mere seconds.
“At no point was Mr. JazziQ alone with Ms. Mcobothi in the lift – they were in the presence of at least 5 other people at all times. The second is that Mr JazziQ and Ms Mcobothi were never in close proximity as she entered the lift before him. Him being the last to enter means that he was also closest to the elevator doors – with no less than 5 other people between them. Finally, the lift was traveling just one floor up – a distance that took a few seconds at best,” JazziQ’s statement read.
JazziQ emphasised his upbringing and values, stating that he respects consent and has never been accused of any form of sexual misconduct before.
He also urged his fans not to attack Mcobothi and expressed his support for all victims of abuse.