In a case that has stunned the Nzhelele Biaba community in Limpopo, 35-year-old Nancy Mudau has been arrested for allegedly collecting child support from eight different men — all for the same child — over a 12-year period.
According to initial reports, each man was led to believe he was the biological father and contributed financially, covering school fees and monthly support. Authorities say the money enabled Ms. Mudau to live a lavish lifestyle, including building a luxury home. At the time of her arrest, she was reportedly constructing a tavern, allegedly using the same funds.
The incident has sparked outrage and disbelief, with many questioning how the deception continued for so long without detection. Police have launched a deeper investigation to determine how the fraud was carried out, whether official documents were falsified, and if others may have been complicit.
Legal experts say this case could set a major precedent in addressing paternity fraud and the abuse of South Africa’s child maintenance system.
