Mbabane- – A 30-year-old man from Kandlunganye has been hauled before the court for allegedly using Facebook to orchestrate a massive cross-country scam involving phantom cows and non-existent rental houses.
Mcebo Magongo appeared before Senior Magistrate Sifiso Vilakati at the Mbabane Magistrate Court, facing 27 counts of theft by false pretenses. The prosecution alleges that Magongo turned social media into a personal marketplace for deception, siphoning thousands of Emalangeni from unsuspecting victims across nearly every major area in the Hhohho and Manzini regions.
According to the charge sheet, Magongo’s alleged spree began as early as late 2024 and continued through April 2026. His method involved posting enticing advertisements on Facebook for livestock and housing. In one instance, he allegedly pocketed E7,500 from a buyer for a cow in eLangeni that did not exist. In dozens of other cases, he reportedly collected “rent” and “security deposits” for vacant houses in areas including Mahwalala, Sandla, Nkoyoyo, Checkers, and Ezulwini.
The court papers detail a trail of victims who paid sums ranging from E400 to over E2,000, only to discover the properties and cattle were fabrications. The victims, spanning from Corporation to Manzana and Mvutshini, were allegedly led to believe they were securing legitimate deals through Facebook’s social media community.
Magongo’s luck finally ran out this month following a string of reports to the police. During his appearance, he was informed of the 27 counts against him, which highlight an organized pattern of using digital misrepresentation to cause actual financial prejudice to citizens.
Senior Magistrate Vilakati remanded Magongo in custody. He is expected back in court on May 8, 2026, for his formal bail application.
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