The South African government has imposed strict bail conditions on Anabela Rungo, the mother of reigning Miss Nigeria and Miss Universe Africa and Oceania, Chidimma Adetshina, barring her from seeking permanent residency in the country.
Rungo, a Mozambican national, was arrested two weeks ago on charges of identity fraud and violation of South Africa’s immigration laws. Authorities alleged that she continued residing in the country despite her documentation being revoked in September 2024 due to fraudulent acquisition.
“The department withdrew Rungo’s South African documentation in September 2024 after finding that it had been fraudulently obtained, rendering her ineligible to continue residing in South Africa,” said Siya Qoza, spokesperson for Home Affairs.
Following her arrest, a court initially denied her bail, citing concerns that her release might undermine public order. However, at a resumed hearing, she was granted bail of R10,000 but placed under house arrest. She is only permitted to leave her home to consult with her lawyers.
Delivering the ruling, Magistrate Sadiqah Guendouz stated: “Rungo will be under house arrest and may only leave her home to consult with her lawyers. She is forbidden from applying for residency permits or having anyone do so on her behalf, and immigration officers may conduct unannounced visits to verify compliance.”
Despite these conditions, Rungo insists on her innocence, claiming her right to a fair hearing has been violated.
Her legal troubles surfaced following the controversy surrounding her daughter’s participation in the Miss South Africa beauty pageant last year. Chidimma Adetshina was disqualified after being deemed ineligible due to her non-citizen status. Facing online backlash, she withdrew from the competition and later won the Miss Universe Nigeria 2024 title. She went on to place as the first runner-up at the global Miss Universe 2024 pageant.
Rungo is scheduled to return to court on May 8.
