Anabela Rungo, the mother of Miss Universe Nigeria 2024 and former Miss South Africa finalist Chidimma Adetshina, has received relaxed bail conditions from the Cape Town Magistrates Court as she continues to face serious charges of identity theft and immigration fraud.
Rungo, a 53-year-old Mozambican national, appeared in court on Wednesday, May 14, where her legal team successfully petitioned for more lenient bail terms.
She had been under house arrest since February, but the court has allowed her to leave her residence, provided she observes a 9 PM curfew. She is also permitted to attend unrelated legal proceedings.
Her arrest stems from a revoked South African ID in September 2024, after which authorities discovered she had allegedly stolen the identity of a South African woman to obtain citizenship fraudulently — a scheme said to date back as far as 2001.
The Department of Home Affairs has since declared her a “prohibited person,” blocking any application for permanent residency while legal proceedings are ongoing.
Rungo’s latest court appearance followed a delay caused by a prosecution and defense counsel change. The case was adjourned to give both sides additional time to prepare. She is expected back in court on September 12.
Immigration attorney Stefanie Darbandi explained the layered complexity of Rungo’s situation:
“The courts are addressing the alleged fraud, while Home Affairs is separately handling her immigration status. The fact that she has cooperated with investigators may play in her favor.”
If found guilty, Rungo could face imprisonment and deportation to Mozambique.
Public opinion remains divided, particularly due to the prominence of her daughter, Chidimma. While some argue Rungo is being treated too leniently, others express empathy, emphasizing the potential impact on her family.
