Timothy Omotoso Arrested: Nigerian Televangelist Faces Immigration Charges

(The Post News)- Nigerian televangelist Timothy Omotoso has been arrested on charges relating to violation of the Immigration Act. According to Police Commissioner General Fannie Masemola, the arrest was made at a church in East London early Saturday morning at 05:00. Masemola confirmed that Omotoso will be facing charges related to the violation of the Immigration Act and will appear in court on Monday. The Department of Home Affairs will provide more details on the charges.

This development comes after Omotoso was acquitted last month by the Gqeberha High Court of charges including rape, sexual assault, and human trafficking. Judge Irma Schoeman acquitted Omotoso and two other accused, Lusanda Sulani and Zukiswa Sitho, citing the state’s failure to prove its case beyond a reasonable doubt. The acquittal sparked controversy and public debate, particularly after the judge noted the prosecution’s weak cross-examination of the accused.

Omotoso’s arrest and upcoming court appearance will likely draw significant attention, given his high profile and the controversy surrounding him in the past. The Department of Home Affairs had already begun deportation proceedings against the 66-year-old, stating that he had overstayed his legal right to remain in South Africa. A charge under the Immigration Act can carry serious penalties, including detention and deportation.

Omotoso’s long-running legal saga has gripped South Africa for nearly a decade, with court proceedings dragging on since his initial arrest in 2017. He was accused of raping and sexually assaulting several young women from his church, with some witnesses testifying that they were handpicked by Omotoso and subjected to strict house rules. Despite walking free from the criminal charges, Omotoso’s legal troubles are far from over.