A married woman from eSwatini, South Africa, Babongile Mkhonta Mkhonta, 35, has been arrested for allegedly collecting maintenance money for a child that never existed.
Mkhonta allegedly received a total of E574,442 (approximately USD 29,600) over five years from her former lover, Sihle Ndlovu, who believed he was financially supporting their child.
Mkhonta has denied the allegations, claiming that Ndlovu voluntarily sent her money electronically.
According to reports from the Times of Swaziland, Ndlovu is said to have paid E5,000 (approximately USD 260) per month, which accumulated to E300,000 (approximately USD 15,500) over the five years.
In addition, he covered other expenses amounting to E274,442 (approximately USD 14,100).
Mkhonta’s arrest followed a police investigation that revealed the child she had presented to Ndlovu’s family in 2022 did not exist. She was summoned to court to present the child but failed to do so.
Mkhonta was apprehended by the Manzini police on October 10, 2024, and charged with theft by false pretences. Initially released on her own recognizance, she was rearrested after not complying with the court order to bring the alleged child.
“I was arrested on the charge after I reported to the Manzini Police Station as instructed. But I never stole any money. Ndlovu voluntarily sent the funds during our relationship,” Mkhonta stated in her bail papers.
Mkhonta, who is currently married to another man, asserted that she has a strong defence, claiming, “I never made any representations to Ndlovu for child support.”
She maintained that Ndlovu willingly sent her money while they were in a relationship.
In addition to her legal troubles, Mkhonta voiced concerns about the conditions at the Mawelawela Women’s Correctional Services facility, describing it as overcrowded and poorly ventilated. She also mentioned her need for medical treatment in Durban, South Africa.
Her bail application is currently under review by Judge Nkosinathi Maseko as the case awaits committal to the High Court.
