South Africa Rearrests Nigerian Pastor Timothy Omotoso on Immigration Charge
South African authorities have rearrested Nigerian televangelist Timothy Omotoso on immigration-related offences, just weeks after his acquittal on multiple rape and sexual assault charges sparked public outcry.
Omotoso was taken into custody on Saturday morning by immigration officials and police in East London, shortly after concluding a church service, according to national police commissioner General Fannie Masemola.
The pastor, who spent nine years in custody awaiting trial, was acquitted last month after a South African court ruled that the prosecution had mishandled the case. Although the presiding judge acknowledged inconsistencies in Omotoso’s testimony, the court concluded that procedural failures undermined the credibility of the case brought against him.
His acquittal led to widespread criticism across South Africa, with women’s rights groups and activists accusing the judicial system of failing survivors of sexual violence.
Authorities have not yet released details of the specific immigration violations that led to his arrest.
Omotoso, a prominent religious figure, had faced accusations from multiple women who alleged they were sexually assaulted after joining his church as followers or trainees. The high-profile case attracted intense media attention and public scrutiny.
As of Saturday evening, the Department of Home Affairs had not issued a formal statement regarding his legal immigration status or potential deportation.
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Sources: South African Police Service, Local Court Records, Silverbird Television reporting
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