A 35-year-old married woman from eSwatini, Babongile Mkhonta, has been arrested for allegedly receiving maintenance payments for a child that does not exist. She is accused of fraudulently obtaining E574,442 (approximately USD 29,600) over a five-year period from her former partner, Sihle Ndlovu, who believed he was financially supporting their child.
Mkhonta has denied the charges, stating, “Ndlovu sent me the money willingly through electronic transfers.”
According to the Times of Swaziland, Ndlovu paid E5,000 (around USD 260) monthly, amounting to E300,000 (about USD 15,500) over the five years, plus additional expenses totaling E274,442 (approximately USD 14,100).
The police began investigating after discovering that the child Mkhonta had introduced to Ndlovu’s family in 2022 did not exist. When ordered by the court to produce the child, Mkhonta failed to comply.
She was arrested by Manzini police on October 10, 2024, and charged with theft by false pretenses. Although initially released, she was rearrested for failing to follow the court’s order to present the supposed child.
In her bail application, Mkhonta stated, “I was arrested after reporting to the Manzini Police Station as instructed. But I never stole any money—Ndlovu voluntarily sent the funds during our relationship.” She further claimed she has a solid defense, arguing, “I never requested child support from Ndlovu,” and insisted the money was given willingly during their relationship.
Mkhonta also raised concerns about the poor conditions at Mawelawela Women’s Correctional Services, describing it as overcrowded and lacking proper ventilation. She also mentioned requiring medical treatment in Durban, South Africa.
Her bail application is currently under review by Judge Nkosinathi Maseko, with the case set to be transferred to the High Court.