In a recent development, Anabela Rungo, the mother of former Miss South Africa participant Chidimma Adetshina, was granted R10,000 bail by the Cape Town Magistrate’s Court.
This comes after Rungo faced serious immigration fraud charges.
Rungo has been classified as prohibited from staying in South Africa, as she does not hold any valid legal documents.
The Charges Against Anabela Rungo
According to court documents, Rungo is facing a total of seven charges for violating the Immigration Act.
Her arrest came after her daughter, Chidimma Adetshina, was spotted in Cape Town despite the Home Affairs department having revoked her documents.
This sparked public outcry, which ultimately led to Rungo’s arrest.
As part of her bail conditions, Rungo has been placed under strict house arrest.
She is only allowed to leave her home in Summer Greens for court appearances and to meet with her legal team.
Additionally, it’s been revealed that she may visit Home Affairs offices if needed, but is prohibited from applying for any documents or visiting the embassy.
The Legal Battle Continues
The court case has been postponed until May 8, 2025, for further investigation.
During the proceedings, Immigration officer Adrian Jackson explained that Rungo was arrested for breaching immigration laws and the Identification Act.
Her failure to challenge the cancellation of her ID number back in September 2024 led to her arrest.
Rungo is accused of having fraudulently obtained her identification documents in 2001 through identity theft, specifically by using the identity of a woman named Sara Moyo.
According to the court, Rungo could not be reached at the time, so notifications about her ID being revoked were sent to her via WhatsApp.
Rungo’s Defense and Public Reaction
Despite the serious nature of the charges against her, Rungo has maintained her innocence.
She firmly believes she will be acquitted, stating, “I believe I am innocent and will be acquitted.
My release would not undermine public peace.”
However, many South Africans have raised questions about whether the R10,000 bail is an appropriate decision given the gravity of the charges.
Some argue that the justice system may be too lenient, especially considering the charges of identity theft.
The court also heard that Rungo continued to travel internationally, possibly using a Mozambican passport, even after her South African documents were seized.