South Africa’s Department of Home Affairs has officially revoked the identification documents of Chidimma Adetshina, former Miss South Africa contestant, and her mother, citing alleged identity fraud. This action follows an investigation triggered after Adetshina’s participation in the Miss South Africa beauty pageant, which drew public scrutiny over her nationality due to her Mozambican mother and Nigerian father.
The Department announced that both Adetshina and her mother failed to provide adequate proof of eligibility to retain their South African IDs by the required deadline. Director-General of Home Affairs, Tommy Makhode, briefed Parliament on October 29, confirming the ID revocations and highlighting the case as part of a broader campaign to address identity manipulation. The case has been referred to the Hawks, South Africa’s Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation, and could lead to criminal charges against both Adetshina and her mother.
Despite the ongoing investigation, Adetshina continues her career in pageantry. After withdrawing from Miss South Africa, she was crowned Miss Universe Nigeria and is currently in Mexico preparing to represent Nigeria at the Miss Universe pageant on November 16.
The Department’s stance emphasizes the importance of preserving national identity integrity, with Makhode noting that fraudulent documentation undermines national security. Home Affairs is also working with Interpol to explore any international aspects of the case. Further legal action will follow as authorities determine the extent of the alleged fraud.
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