Johannesburg – Popular South African actress Nambitha Mpumlwana is currently navigating a legal tightrope after being arrested on shoplifting charges in Randburg. The former Generations: The Legacy star finds herself under the scrutiny of the National Prosecuting Authority's (NPA) diversion programme, a crucial step that will determine whether she ultimately faces trial.
The arrest occurred after Ms. Mpumlwana allegedly stole beauty products from a Dis-Chem store located in Ferndale Mall, Randburg, north of Johannesburg. The incident involved lipsticks valued at a mere R160. Following her arrest, she was granted bail of R1,000 and was initially expected to appear in court to answer to the charges.
However, in a surprising turn of events, law enforcement authorities opted to place Ms. Mpumlwana into a diversion programme. This initiative represents an alternative to traditional prosecution, with a focus on rehabilitation. The aim is to prevent first-time or minor offenders from acquiring a criminal record by addressing the underlying issues that may have contributed to the alleged crime. Such programmes typically involve counselling sessions, community service, and other corrective measures designed to promote responsible behaviour.
An anonymous police officer, who is close to the case but not authorised to speak to the media, revealed that the NPA provisionally withdrew the case against Ms. Mpumlwana in September 2025. This withdrawal was specifically to allow her to participate in the diversion programme.
The news of the diversion programme followed earlier whispers that the case against the actress might have been withdrawn altogether due to allegations that it was fabricated. However, the NPA has clarified the situation.
NPA South Gauteng spokeswoman Phindi Mjonondwane confirmed that Ms. Mpumlwana's case had indeed been referred to the diversion programme. "The case was provisionally withdrawn to allow her to complete a diversion programme. Once successfully completed, the prosecution must be provided with the final diversion report thereof to make a decision on the matter," Mjonondwane stated.
According to the anonymous police source, Randburg police received a call from Dis-Chem management reporting the alleged shoplifting incident involving a "prominent actress." Upon arriving at the scene, officers were informed that the suspect was Ms. Mpumlwana and that she was accused of stealing lipsticks with a total value of R160.
The police source further stated that Ms. Mpumlwana denied stealing the items, claiming the incident was simply a misunderstanding. Despite her explanation, store management insisted on pursuing the matter through the courts.
Subsequently, Ms. Mpumlwana was taken to the Randburg police station, where she was formally charged with shoplifting and released on bail of R1,000. She later made an appearance in the Randburg Magistrates Court, where the case was provisionally withdrawn pending the outcome of her participation in the diversion programme.
Ms. Mpumlwana could not be reached for comment on the matter, phone calls went unanswered. Questions were also sent to her, but no response was received by the time of publication.
The successful completion of the diversion programme is now crucial for Ms. Mpumlwana. If she fulfils the requirements set forth by the NPA, the charges against her could be dropped entirely, allowing her to avoid a criminal record and move forward with her career. However, failure to complete the programme could result in the case being reinstated and the actress facing trial for the alleged shoplifting incident. The coming months will be critical as Ms. Mpumlwana works towards resolving this legal challenge.
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