Mother of Nigeria’s Miss Universe Representative Chidimma Adetshina Arrested in Cape Town Over Alleged Identity Fraud

Anabela Rungo Detained for Fraudulent Documentation, Sparking Concerns Over Underage Child’s Welfare

South African authorities have arrested Anabela Rungo, the mother of Nigeria’s Miss Universe representative, Chidimma Adetshina, on suspicion of identity document fraud. The Mozambican national was taken into custody in Cape Town on Tuesday following a joint operation by the Department of Home Affairs and the South African Police Service (SAPS).

The arrest comes months after Rungo was declared persona non grata in September 2024, when her South African residency documents were found to have been fraudulently obtained. Despite being deemed “undesirable” and ineligible to remain in the country, Rungo allegedly continued to reside in South Africa using her Mozambican passport, prompting further investigation.

In a statement, the Department of Home Affairs confirmed the arrest, stating, “Investigators from the Department, assisted by SAPS, detained Ms. Anabela Rungo at a property in Cape Town. Her South African documentation was withdrawn last year after it was discovered to have been fraudulently obtained. However, it appears she defied her status and continued to reside in the country unlawfully.”

The operation also uncovered that Rungo was living with Adetshina’s underage child, raising additional concerns. Authorities are now working with the Department of Social Development and SAPS’s Child Protection Unit to ensure the child’s safety and well-being.

Rungo is also under investigation by the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (DPCI), commonly known as the Hawks, for further alleged fraudulent activities. After being processed by Home Affairs, she will be handed over to SAPS to face charges related to her illegal residency and potential misrepresentation.

The Department of Home Affairs has stated that no further interviews or comments will be provided at this stage, but updates will be shared as the investigation progresses.

The case has drawn significant attention due to Rungo’s connection to Chidimma Adetshina, who represented Nigeria at the 2023 Miss Universe pageant. As the legal proceedings unfold, questions remain about the extent of Rungo’s alleged fraudulent activities and the implications for her family.

For now, authorities are focused on ensuring justice is served while safeguarding the interests of the underage child caught in the midst of the controversy.

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