'I do not fake life': Chameleone defends $80,000 receipt

Leone Island singer Jose Chameleone has come out swinging against critics questioning the authenticity of a receipt showing an alleged $80,000 (Sh350m) transaction from his long-time friend, Fred Zink, insisting the money is real and challenging sceptics to stop playing financial detectives.

A few days ago, Chameleone took to his WhatsApp status and shared a screenshot of a conversation with Zink, who appeared to have sent the singer a bank transaction receipt showing $80,000 transferred through JPMorgan Bank to his account.

In the chat, Zink asked Chameleone to confirm whether the money had landed. The singer reportedly confirmed receipt and thanked his benefactor.

And just like that, the internet found itself a new full-time job: auditing Chameleone’s alleged millions without a bank statement, an invitation to the bank or, presumably, a single dollar in the transaction.

Chameleone went on a foul-mouthed tirade to defend the money.

Instead of simply marvelling at the eye-watering figure, some social media users put on their imaginary forensic accounting hats, scrutinising the receipt and pointing out tiny details they believed suggested it had been altered.

But Chameleone was having none of it. During a visibly heated live broadcast, the singer denied fabricating the receipt, insisting that the money was genuine and linked to sponsorship from Trace TV.

"People are saying, 'I faked the receipt of the money I received; just give me your name so I can give you money.'" Fred sent me that money from Trace Sponsorship. I do not fake life. If you fake your life from looks to everything, I do not,” he said.

Chameleone appears determined to make one thing clear: he is not interested in manufacturing a wealthy image for social media applause. But with $80,000 involved, the online jury seems unwilling to adjourn just yet.