Nigerian Pastor Timothy Omotoso Rearrested Over Immigration

• May 10, 2025

Nigerian televangelist Timothy Omotoso was rearrested in South Africa early Saturday morning, just weeks after being acquitted of serious criminal charges. Authorities confirmed the arrest took place in East London around 5 a.m., shortly after he concluded a church service.

Omotoso, 66, leads the Jesus Dominion International church, which is based in South Africa. He was first arrested in 2017 and faced 32 charges, including rape, sexual exploitation, and human trafficking. Several young women, some still in school at the time, testified that he handpicked them from his congregation. They alleged that after each assault, Omotoso would lead them in prayers seeking forgiveness.

Despite these serious accusations, Omotoso was acquitted last month of all 32 charges. His release came after spending nine years in jail awaiting trial, making the outcome both controversial and widely followed.

However, his freedom was short-lived. National Police Commissioner Fannie Masemola confirmed that Omotoso’s latest arrest was unrelated to the previous charges. Instead, the arrest was based on immigration issues. The South African Police Service (SAPS), working alongside the Tactical Response Team and immigration officers from the Department of Home Affairs, carried out the arrest.

Commissioner Masemola stated that Omotoso will appear in court on Monday, where the specific immigration-related charges will be made clear to the public. While full details have not yet been released, authorities emphasized that the latest case involves violations of immigration laws, not criminal allegations of abuse or exploitation.

Omotoso’s legal troubles have drawn significant public attention in South Africa and beyond, especially given the nature of the original charges and the lengthy period he spent behind bars awaiting trial. His release in April was met with mixed reactions, with some expressing relief while others raised concerns about justice for the accusers.

As the case returns to court, focus will now shift to the immigration charges and what consequences they may carry for the controversial pastor. His supporters and critics alike will be watching closely for the next legal steps.