The Department of Home Affairs is investigating allegations of identity fraud involving the mother of Chidimma Adetshina, a contestant in the upcoming Miss South Africa pageant. According to the department, there are preliminary reasons to believe that the individual recorded as Adetshina’s mother may have engaged in fraudulent activities affecting Adetshina’s citizenship verification.

This investigation was initiated following a request from Miss SA organizers to confirm Adetshina’s citizenship, which has since revealed potentially fraudulent actions dating back to 2001 when Adetshina was just an infant. As a result, another South African mother reportedly suffered from identity theft, which prevented her from registering her child properly.

Home Affairs has now expanded its investigation to include any governmental officials who might have assisted in these alleged fraudulent activities. The department is also consulting legal experts to understand the potential effects of these actions on Adetshina’s citizenship status and plans to press charges against all involved once the investigation concludes.

The case has underscored the need for digital modernization within the department to prevent such fraud, drawing parallels to past reforms at the South African Revenue Service. This modernization aims to secure the integrity of the department’s records and prevent similar issues in the future.

Home Affairs maintains its dedication to upholding the law and ensuring justice. It continues to engage with all stakeholders, including Adetshina’s family, and promises to provide a final update when the investigation is complete.