The South African government has imposed strict bail conditions on Anabela Rungo, the mother of reigning Ms Universe Africa and Oceania, Chidimma Adetshina, and barred her from applying for permanent residency in the country.
As part of the conditions, Rungo was granted bail of R10,000 and placed under house arrest.
The Mozambican national was arrested two weeks ago for alleged identity fraud and violations of South Africa’s immigration laws. Authorities claimed she continued to reside in the country despite her documentation being revoked in September last year due to allegations of fraudulently obtaining her identity documents.
“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,” Home Affairs spokesperson Siya Qoza stated.
“It appears that Rungo has defied her ‘undesirable’ status through her Mozambican passport,” he added.
Initially, the court denied her bail, arguing that her release could undermine public peace. However, at a resumed hearing yesterday, the court granted her bail while maintaining strict restrictions.
Rungo has been confined to her home and may only leave for legal consultations. Additionally, she is prohibited from applying for residency permits or having someone else do so on her behalf. Immigration officers are also authorized to conduct unannounced visits to ensure compliance.
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 the charges, Rungo has maintained her innocence, arguing that her right to a fair hearing is being infringed upon.
Her legal troubles have come under increased scrutiny following the controversy surrounding her daughter’s participation in the Miss South Africa beauty pageant last year.
Chidimma Adetshina was disqualified from the competition for not being a South African citizen. Facing online backlash, she withdrew from the contest and later competed in Miss Universe Nigeria 2024, where she emerged as the winner. She went on to become the first runner-up at Miss Universe 2024 and was crowned Miss Universe Africa and Oceania.
Rungo is scheduled to appear in court again on May 8.
