BY: Saneliso Mlambo
In a recent development, Anabela Rungo, the mother of Miss Universe Nigeria 2024 first runner-up, Chidimma Adetshina, has been granted bail of R10,000 by the Cape Town Magistrate’s Court. Rungo, a 46-year-old Mozambican national, faces charges of identity fraud and contravention of South Africa’s immigration laws.
The controversy began in August 2024 when Chidimma Adetshina, then a contestant in the Miss South Africa pageant, faced scrutiny over her citizenship status. The South African Department of Home Affairs initiated an investigation into her mother’s acquisition of South African citizenship. Preliminary findings suggested that Rungo might have committed identity theft in 2001, allegedly assuming the identity of a South African woman. This alleged fraud not only cast doubts on Adetshina’s eligibility in the pageant but also reportedly prevented the rightful identity holder from registering her own child.
Amid the ensuing controversy and xenophobic backlash, Adetshina withdrew from the Miss South Africa competition, citing concerns for her family’s safety. Subsequently, she was invited to compete in the Miss Universe Nigeria pageant, where she emerged victorious. Representing Nigeria, Adetshina achieved first runner-up at the Miss Universe 2024 pageant held in Mexico City.
On February 15, 2025, Rungo was arrested at the Milnerton Police Station in Cape Town. She was charged with multiple offenses, including contraventions of the Immigration Act and the Identification Act. During her bail application, Rungo maintained her innocence, stating, “I believe I am innocent and will be acquitted. My release would not undermine public peace.”
However, a Department of Home Affairs official argued against granting bail, suggesting that allowing Rungo to remain in the country after allegedly residing illegally would send the wrong message.
Despite the prosecution’s objections, the court granted Rungo bail of R10,000. The conditions of her bail and the date for the next court appearance have yet to be publicly disclosed. This case has reignited discussions about immigration, identity fraud, and xenophobia in South Africa, highlighting the complexities faced by individuals with multinational backgrounds.
As the legal proceedings continue, the outcomes may have significant implications for both Rungo and her daughter, especially concerning their residency status and future opportunities in South Africa.