South Africa moves to deport ex-Miss South Africa finalist

South African authorities are moving to deport former beauty queen Chidimma Adetshina, alleging she has been living in the country without legal immigration status. The 25-year-old model, who was a finalist in the 2024 Miss South Africa pageant and later represented Nigeria at Miss Universe, was arrested earlier this month in Cape Town and appeared in court on June 9.

The Department of Home Affairs has asked the Cape Town Regional Court to confirm Adetshina's detention to facilitate her deportation. According to an affidavit filed by immigration officer Adrian Jackson, officials determined that Adetshina and her minor son were residing in South Africa without lawful status. Jackson stated that checks through the department's electronic systems and a status interview confirmed she does not hold any lawful residential status and is thus considered an illegal foreigner.

The court released Adetshina on warning, and the case is scheduled to resume on July 16. As part of her conditions, she must remain at the address where she was arrested in the Summer Greens area and inform immigration officials of any changes to her residence, employment, or movements.