Evidence of fraud uncovered in Chidimma Adetshina probe

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The Department of Home Affairs has confirmed that it has uncovered evidence of fraud in its ongoing investigation into the citizenship of Miss SA contestant, Chidimma Adetshina.

According to the department the update comes after an official request was received from Miss South Africa, as well as the consent provided by both the contestant and her mother.

It further revealed that it will provide a final update once the investigation is concluded.

“On Monday, the organisers of the event sent the department a request to verify the citizenship of a contestant, Chidimma Adetshina,” spokesperson for the minister, Duwayne Esau stated.

[MEDIA STATEMENT] Ongoing Home Affairs investigation finds Prima Facie indications of fraud committed by Chidimma Adetshina’s mother. #TeamHomeAffairs #DHAServiceDelivery @GCISMedia pic.twitter.com/X5Dy2fWjNW

— HomeAffairsSA 🇿🇦 (@HomeAffairsSA) August 7, 2024

He said upon receiving this request, the department deployed every resource at its disposal to establish the truth.

Esau highlighted that this has included archival research, visits to hospitals, and site visits to verify information.

“Prima facie reasons exist to believe that fraud and identity theft may have been committed by the person recorded in Home Affairs records as Chidimma Adetshina’s mother.

Identity theft committed in Chidimma citizenship

“Adetshina could not have participated in the alleged unlawful actions of her mother, as she was an infant at the time when the activities took place in 2001.

“An innocent South African mother, whose identity may have been stolen as part of the alleged fraud committed by Adetshina’s mother, suffered as a result because she could not register her child,” he explained.

Esau added that the department has broadened its investigation to identify and pursue any officials involved in the alleged fraudulent scheme.

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He also stated that they are obtaining legal advice on the implications of the alleged fraudulent activity on Adetshina’s citizenship status.

“Upon the completion of the investigation, Home Affairs intends to press criminal charges against all implicated parties,” he concluded.