The mother of Nigerian beauty queen Chidimma Adetshina, Anabela Rungo has been arrested in Cape Town over alleged illegal residence in South Africa.
On Saturday the Department of Home Affairs, Republic of South Africa, issued a notice of detention for Rungo, which was enforced by the South African Police Service.
In September 2024, Rungo’s South African documents were revoked following allegations of identity fraud in obtaining citizenship, making her ineligible to remain in the country. Despite the authorities’ directive, she reportedly continued living in Cape Town with Chidimma’s sibling, using her Mozambican passport.
Home Affairs spokesperson Siya Qoza stated that investigations are ongoing into possible misrepresentation and fraudulent activities involving Rungo. Authorities are examining how she obtained her previous documents and whether further legal action will follow.
The arrest comes months after the rise of Chidimma Adetshina on the global beauty scene. Competing in South Africa had presented identity-related hurdles due to her Nigerian name, but she remained determined.
She ultimately claimed the Miss Nigeria 2024 title and went on to secure the position of Miss Universe 1st runner-up, earning the Miss Universe Africa and Oceania crown. Her success placed her among the most influential African beauty queens on the global stage.
Reported by The Guardian
