South Africa imposes strict bail conditions on Miss Universe Africa’s mother
The South African government has imposed stringent bail conditions on Anabela Rungo, the mother of reigning Miss Universe Africa and Oceania, Chidimma Adetshina, barring her from seeking permanent residency in the country.
Rungo, a Mozambican national, was arrested in the penultimate week on allegations of identity fraud and violating South Africa’s immigration laws. She was granted bail in the sum of R10,000 (approximately $600) and placed under house arrest with strict restrictions on her movements.
On February 15, investigators from the Department of Home Affairs, assisted by the South African Police Service (SAPS), detained Anabela Rungo at a property in Cape Town.
The South African government alleged that Rungo continued to reside in the country despite her documentation being revoked in September 2024 due to allegations that she fraudulently obtained her identity documents.
Siya Qoza, spokesperson for the Department of Home Affairs, confirmed her arrest, stating, “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. It appears that Rungo has defied her ‘undesirable’ status through her Mozambican passport,” the Vanguard quotes.
Initially, the court denied her bail last week, citing concerns that her release could undermine public order. However, at a resumed hearing yesterday, Magistrate Sadiqah Guendouz ruled in her favour, granting her bail while imposing house arrest.
“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,” the magistrate declared.
Prosecutors opposed her release, arguing that she posed a flight risk. However, Magistrate Guendouz noted that Rungo’s immigration status would remain unchanged whether she was detained or not.
Rungo, who is set to appear before the court on May 8, has maintained her innocence, claiming that her right to a fair hearing is being infringed upon by authorities.
