Renowned South African actress Nambitha Mpumlwana has reacted to reports that she was recently arrested for allegedly stealing lipsticks from a Dis-Chem store at Ferndale Mall.
The former Generations star, widely recognized for her role as Mawande Memela, appeared in the Randburg Magistrate’s Court and was released on R1,000 bail.
Alleged Shoplifting Incident
According to a Sunday World report, Mpumlwana was accused of pocketing lipsticks worth R160 at the pharmacy retailer before being arrested and charged with shoplifting.
A police officer, who spoke anonymously, claimed that Mpumlwana insisted the incident was a misunderstanding. However, Dis-Chem proceeded to lay formal charges, leading to her court appearance this past week.
Nambitha Mpumlwana
Actress Reacts to the Claims
Although Mpumlwana has not publicly addressed the allegations in detail, she subtly responded through social media.
On Instagram, she liked a comment under a post that read:
“Why are people telling lies?”
Additionally, she shared another post that seemed to indirectly reference the controversy, stating:
“Sometimes you just have to let people be wrong about you.”
Despite multiple attempts by the publication, Mpumlwana has not responded to requests for comment regarding the matter.
Nambitha Mpumlwana
Not the First Generations Star Accused of Shoplifting
Mpumlwana is not the first actress from Generations to face shoplifting allegations.
In 2013, actress Maggie Benedict, known for playing Akhona Miya, was also arrested for allegedly stealing a pack of Panados from a Checkers store in Cresta, Johannesburg.
However, Benedict denied any wrongdoing, claiming that the incident was a wrongful arrest based on a misunderstanding.
She later took to Facebook to defend herself, writing:
“I, UNEQUIVOCALLY, DID NOT STEAL HEADACHE TABLETS FROM CHECKERS. I am innocent of this alleged crime, and there was no basis for the arrest.”
She further explained that she had purchased the painkillers weeks before the incident and could not provide a till slip to prove it.
“Checkers could not provide proof either, as the camera covering the relevant aisle didn’t work. Neither party has conclusive evidence of the alleged crime.”
Benedict also criticized how the situation was handled, adding:
“I am appalled that this ill-handled misunderstanding requires not a diplomatic conversation to resolve but rather, a piece of my character.”
“I guess it is far easier to ‘Make An Example Of That Actress’ than it is to admit that perhaps, just perhaps, Checkers’ anti-theft machines and cameras might need a service.”
Ultimately, in 2015, Maggie Benedict was found not guilty of shoplifting, clearing her name.
Nambitha Mpumlwana
Public Reactions and Media Scrutiny
Following the latest allegations against Nambitha Mpumlwana, social media users have been divided in their opinions.
Some fans expressed disbelief, arguing that such a respected actress would not risk her reputation over a few lipsticks. Others, however, believe celebrities should be held accountable if found guilty.
The incident has also raised questions about how security policies in retail stores are enforced, especially regarding high-profile individuals.
For now, the case remains open, and Mpumlwana is expected to clear her name or face further legal consequences.
Nambitha Mpumlwana
A Career Overshadowed by Controversy?
Despite the allegations, Nambitha Mpumlwana remains a highly regarded actress in South Africa, with an impressive career spanning decades.
Her portrayal of Mawande Memela in Generations earned her critical acclaim, and she has continued to be a respected figure in the entertainment industry.
Whether this shoplifting case will affect her career long-term remains to be seen, but history has shown that misunderstandings like these can sometimes be blown out of proportion.
Until Mpumlwana officially speaks out, her supporters will be watching closely to see how the legal proceedings unfold.