Controversial Nigerian televangelist, Timothy Omotoso, has once again found himself in police custody after being rearrested in South Africa just weeks after his acquittal on multiple rape and human trafficking charges.
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South African authorities, including the police and the Department of Home Affairs, confirmed that Omotoso was taken into custody early Saturday morning in East London, Eastern Cape. His arrest comes amid renewed scrutiny and unresolved legal and immigration issues stemming from his high-profile case.
Omotoso, 66, is the head pastor of Jesus Dominion International, a church based in South Africa. He was initially arrested in 2017 and faced 32 serious charges, including rape, sexual exploitation, and human trafficking.
Many of the victims who testified during the initial trial were young women, some still in school, who alleged that Omotoso lured them with promises of spiritual healing, only to sexually exploit them behind closed doors. Some of the women said he would lead them in prayer sessions seeking forgiveness after each assault.
Despite the harrowing testimonies and years of legal proceedings, Omotoso was controversially acquitted last month, after spending nine years in custody awaiting the outcome of the case. His release sparked outrage among rights activists and some members of the public who believed justice had not been served.
The circumstances surrounding his latest arrest remain unclear, but sources close to the investigation suggest it may be related to immigration violations or new evidence tied to previous allegations.
PUNCH Online reports that the fresh arrest could lead to a possible reopening of the case or the filing of new charges. The South African justice system, which had already faced criticism over delays and procedural issues in Omotoso’s initial trial, may now have to reckon with renewed demands for accountability and justice.
As of press time, authorities have not disclosed formal charges linked to the latest arrest, but public pressure is mounting for transparency and resolution in a case that continues to shock the religious and legal communities in both South Africa and Nigeria.
Stay with ConfirmNews for updates on this developing story.