Nigerian televangelist Timothy Omotoso, recently acquitted of multiple rape charges, has been rearrested in South Africa on immigration-related offences, police confirmed on Saturday, May 10.
Omotoso, 66, was released in April 2025 after spending nine years in custody awaiting trial for rape, sexual assault, and human trafficking. He led the Jesus Dominion International (JDI) church based in South Africa.
Despite the seriousness of the allegations, an Eastern Cape High Court judge acquitted him, citing the prosecution’s failure to prove its case beyond a reasonable doubt. Judge Irma Schoeman noted that while Omotoso’s version of events seemed unlikely, the case was mishandled by state prosecutors. Two of his associates were also cleared of related charges.
Omotoso was re-arrested on Saturday morning in East London, just after a church service, according to South African Police Commissioner General Fannie Masemola. “He will be facing charges related to violations of the Immigration Act and will appear in court on Monday,” Masemola said.
Omotoso was first arrested in 2017 on 32 counts, including rape, sexual exploitation, and human trafficking. Several young women, some still school-aged at the time, testified that they were selected by the pastor and subjected to abuse, after which he would offer prayers for forgiveness.