Chidimma Adetshina, a South African model, has withdrawn from the Miss South Africa contest after facing scrutiny over her nationality.

She confirmed her decision on Thursday, following an announcement by the Department of Home Affairs that they had obtained information suggesting her mother might have committed fraud and identity theft to support nationality claims.

The 23-year-old model has been at the center of controversy regarding her eligibility to participate in the competition, with the final set to take place on Saturday, August 10.

'Being part of the Miss South Africa 2024 competition has been an amazing journey.

However, after much careful consideration, I have made the difficult decision to withdraw from the competition for the safety and wellbeing of my family and I,' she said in a statement.

Home Affairs has broadened its investigation into the nationality issue, targeting officials who may have abetted it.

The department initiated a probe, which is ongoing, after a request by Miss SA organizers and with the consent of Chidimma and her mother.

Home Affairs Minister Leon Schreiber stated that the Miss SA contestant was not to blame in the saga, as she was an infant at the time her mother is alleged to have committed the crime.

'The department has broadened its investigation to identify and pursue any officials involved in the alleged fraudulent scheme, and is obtaining legal advice on the implications of the alleged fraudulent activity on Adetshina's citizenship status.

Upon the completion of the investigation, Home Affairs intends to press criminal charges against all implicated parties.

'Chidimma has experienced abuse on social media since she reached the final of the pageant.

The model was born in South Africa to a Nigerian father and a mother of Mozambican origin.