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A married woman from eSwatinie has been arrested for allegedly receiving maintenance money for a child that never existed.
The woman, Babongile Mkhonta Mkhonta, 35, reportedly collected a total of E574,442 (approx. USD 29,600) over five years from her former lover, Sihle Ndlovu, who believed he was supporting their child.
However, a defiant Mkhonta denied stealing the money, stating,
“Ndlovu voluntarily sent me the money electronically.”
The Times of Swaziland reports that Ndlovu is said to have paid E5,000 (approx. USD 260) per month, accumulating E300,000 (approx. USD 15,500) over five years. In addition, he covered other expenses amounting to E274,442 (approx. USD 14,100).
Mkhonta’s arrest came after a police investigation revealed that the child she had shown Ndlovu’s family in 2022 did not exist. She was summoned to bring the child to court but failed to do so.
Mkhonta was arrested by Manzini police on 10 October 2024 and charged with theft by false pretences. She was released on her own recognisance but was rearrested after failing to bring the alleged child to court as ordered.
Mkhonta told the court that she had been questioned by police several times but maintained her innocence.
“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,” she said in her bail papers. (NewsChart Media)
Online Reporter