Controversial Nigerian televangelist Timothy Omotoso, 66, was rearrested early Saturday morning in East London on charges related to violations of South Africa’s Immigration Act. The arrest comes just over a month after his acquittal on multiple charges, including rape and human trafficking.
According to National Police Commissioner General Fannie Masemola, Omotoso was apprehended around 5:00 AM by members of the Department of Home Affairs’ Immigration Inspectorate, in collaboration with the South African Police Service (SAPS) and the Tactical Response Team (TRT). The arrest occurred shortly after Omotoso concluded a church service in the city.
“He will be facing charges related to the violation of the Immigration Act and will appear in court on Monday,” Masemola stated . Omotoso is currently being held at the Mdantsane police station.
This development follows Omotoso’s recent acquittal on April 2, 2025, by the Eastern Cape High Court in Gqeberha. He, along with co-accused Lusanda Sulani and Zikiswa Sitho, had faced 32 charges, including rape, human trafficking, and racketeering. The trial, which began in 2017, concluded with Judge Irma Schoeman ruling that the prosecution failed to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
#sapsHQ The National Commissioner of the SAPS, General Fannie Masemola confirms the arrest of Televangelist Timothy Omotoso this morning in East London by the Department of Home Affairs Immigration Inspectorate together with the SAPS’ National Intervention Unit (NIU) and Tactical… pic.twitter.com/ZZzrp3gUa3
— SA Police Service 🇿🇦 (@SAPoliceService) May 10, 2025
The Department of Home Affairs has yet to release a detailed statement regarding the specific immigration violations alleged against Omotoso. However, such charges can encompass a range of offenses, including overstaying a visa, fraudulent documentation, or unauthorized work.
Omotoso’s arrest has reignited public discourse surrounding his activities and the broader issues of immigration enforcement and accountability within religious institutions. His upcoming court appearance on Monday is expected to shed more light on the nature of the charges and the potential legal ramifications.
This is a developing story. Further updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
