Anabela Rungo, the mother of Miss Nigeria 2024, Chidimma, has once again found herself in the spotlight—this time for identity theft. Rungo was arrested in Summer Greens, Cape Town, over the weekend after it was discovered that she had fraudulently obtained South African citizenship through identity fraud.
She appeared in the Cape Town Magistrates Court on Friday for a bail hearing, facing serious charges related to violating immigration laws and the Identification Act.
The Arrest and Investigation
According to TimesLIVE, Immigration Officer Adrian Jackson told the court that Rungo had been under investigation for some time. The authorities had informed her in September 2024 that her ID number was being canceled due to fraudulent activity, and she was given an opportunity to contest the decision. However, she failed to respond.
After further investigation, Home Affairs confirmed that Rungo had obtained her South African identity documents fraudulently. Court proceedings revealed that she had falsely applied for an ID in 2001 using the name Sara Moyo.
Jackson further testified that Rungo could not be located, so Home Affairs sent her notifications via WhatsApp, informing her that her identity documents were being revoked.
Rungo Maintains Her Innocence
Despite the overwhelming evidence, Rungo insists she is innocent.
“I believe I am innocent and will be acquitted,” she told the court.
She also argued that granting her bail would not undermine public peace, suggesting that she does not pose a risk to society.
Travelling Under a Mozambican Passport
Another shocking revelation in the case is that Rungo allegedly continued to travel internationally despite her South African documents being revoked. Authorities suspect that she may have been using a Mozambican passport to move between countries.
This discovery raises serious concerns about border security and fraudulent activities within the country’s immigration system.
Chidimma’s Miss South Africa Controversy
This is not the first time Rungo’s alleged fraudulent activities have made headlines.
Her daughter, Chidimma, who was once a Miss South Africa 2024 contestant, was forced to withdraw from the competition in August last year after Home Affairs revealed that her mother had allegedly committed identity fraud to secure South African citizenship.
This revelation not only shocked the pageant community but also sparked a national debate on immigration fraud and its implications.
Impact on Another South African Woman
One of the most disturbing aspects of this case is the real-life impact of identity theft.
As a result of Rungo’s fraudulent identity registration, a South African woman whose identity may have been stolen was unable to register her child. This situation highlights how identity theft affects innocent people, leaving them without proper documentation and access to essential services.
The Legal Battle Ahead
With the case now in court, legal experts predict a tough road ahead for Rungo. If convicted, she faces serious consequences, including deportation, imprisonment, or both.
Authorities are expected to continue their investigations, as cases of identity fraud and illegal immigration remain a major concern in South Africa.
Meanwhile, the public awaits further updates as the court decides whether Rungo will be granted bail or remain in custody.
Final Thoughts
The case of Anabela Rungo serves as a harsh reminder of the consequences of identity fraud. While she maintains her innocence, the evidence against her is mounting, and her trial could set a precedent for future immigration fraud cases in South Africa.
As the legal proceedings continue, many are left wondering how many more cases like this exist, where innocent citizens are robbed of their identities while others benefit fraudulently.
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