The South African government has placed strict conditions on Anabela Rungo, the mother of reigning Ms. Universe Africa and Oceania, Chidimma Adetshina, barring her from seeking permanent residency in the country.
Rungo, a Mozambican national, was arrested two weeks ago for alleged identity fraud and immigration violations. Authorities claim she remained in South Africa despite her residency documents being revoked in September 2024 due to fraudulent acquisition. The Home Affairs Department stated that she continued living in the country using her Mozambican passport, defying her “undesirable” status.
After initially being denied bail over concerns it could disrupt public order, Rungo was granted bail at a resumed court hearing. The court approved her release on a R10,000 bond but placed her under house arrest, restricting her movement except for legal consultations. She is also prohibited from applying for residency or having anyone do so on her behalf. Immigration officers have been authorized to conduct unannounced checks to ensure compliance.
Despite the prosecution arguing that Rungo posed a flight risk, Magistrate Sadiqah Guendouz ruled that her immigration status would remain the same regardless of whether she was detained or not. Rungo insists she is innocent and claims her right to a fair trial is being violated.
Her legal troubles surfaced after controversy over her daughter’s participation in the Miss South Africa beauty pageant last year. Adetshina, who was not a South African citizen, withdrew from the competition following online harassment. She later won Miss Universe Nigeria 2024 and went on to become the first runner-up at Miss Universe, securing the title of Miss Universe Africa and Oceania.
Rungo is set to return to court on May 8 as the legal battle continues.