Miss Universe Africa Chidimma Adetshina’s mother detained over citizenship fraud
The mother of Miss Universe Africa and Oceania, Chidimma Adetshina, was detained in Cape Town on Saturday after being found residing in South Africa despite her documents being revoked last year.
Anabela Rungo was declared ineligible to remain in the country in September 2023 after authorities discovered she had allegedly committed identity fraud to obtain South African citizenship.
Home Affairs spokesperson Siya Qoza stated that Rungo’s continued stay in South Africa, despite her ‘undesirable’ status, raised further concerns. “Investigations are ongoing into potential misrepresentation and fraudulent conduct,” he said.
During the arrest, officials also found Adetshina’s young child living with Rungo. Authorities have since involved the Department of Social Development and the SAPS Child Protection Unit to ensure the child’s welfare.
Following her processing by Home Affairs, Rungo is expected to be handed over to the South African Police Service as she remains under investigation by the Hawks.
Adetshina’s family background first came under scrutiny when she advanced to the top ten of Miss South Africa 2023. Many questioned her nationality, prompting her to clarify that she was born to a Nigerian father and a South African mother of Mozambican descent. However, a Home Affairs investigation later uncovered possible identity fraud linked to her mother.
Amid the controversy, Adetshina withdrew from Miss South Africa but went on to represent Nigeria in the Miss Universe pageant. She emerged as first runner-up and won the title of Miss Universe Africa and Oceania.
Home Affairs has indicated that more details on Rungo’s case will be released at the appropriate time, but no interviews will be granted at this stage.
