Timothy Omotoso Re-Arrested on Immigration Charges in Eastern Cape

 Timothy Omotoso Re-Arrested on Immigration Charges Following High-Profile Acquittal

Nigerian Televangelist Timothy Omotoso Taken into Custody Again Over Immigration Issues Gallo Images / Daily Dispatch / Fredlin Adriaan

Nigerian televangelist Timothy Omotoso, known for leading the Jesus Dominion International church in South Africa, has been re-arrested by law enforcement authorities early on Saturday morning. The arrest, confirmed by Eastern Cape police, is related to unresolved immigration violations and comes just weeks after his high-profile acquittal on rape, human trafficking, and sexual assault charges.

According to National Police Commissioner General Fannie Masemola, the arrest was executed by the Department of Home Affairs' Immigration Inspectorate in collaboration with the South African Police Service (SAPS) and the Tactical Response Team. Omotoso was taken into custody around 5:00 AM in East London and is currently being held at the Mdantsane police station.

"The immigration inspectorate of the Department of Home Affairs, together with SAPS, implemented the arrest," Masemola stated. "The arrest is based on matters concerning his immigration status in South Africa."

Although full details of the alleged immigration violations have not been released, it is understood that the arrest stems from a prior ruling by the Department of Home Affairs that declared Omotoso a "prohibited person" a status that renders his continued presence in South Africa illegal. Sources suggest this decision was upheld recently, paving the way for enforcement actions.

Omotoso is expected to appear in court on Monday, 12 May 2025.

His re-arrest has reignited public interest in a case that has spanned nearly a decade. On April 2, 2025, Omotoso, along with co-accused Lusanda Sulani and Zukiswa Sitho, was acquitted by the Eastern Cape High Court in Gqeberha after facing 32 charges, including rape and racketeering. The court ruled that the state had failed to prove its case beyond reasonable doubt, citing numerous procedural irregularities and delays that plagued the prosecution.

A group of Omotoso's supporters gathered outside the Mdantsane police station, engaging in prayer and singing as they called for his release. 

In response to the latest arrest, a group of Omotoso's supporters gathered outside the Mdantsane police station, engaging in prayer and singing as they called for his release. The scene bore echoes of previous demonstrations during his lengthy trial, reflecting the deep divisions in public opinion surrounding the controversial pastor.