South African authorities have rearrested Nigerian televangelist Timothy Omotosho, just weeks after he was acquitted of multiple rape charges. The arrest, carried out on Saturday morning in the town of East London, is linked to immigration violations.

 

Omotosho, a prominent pastor with Jesus Dominion International (JDI), was released last month after a high-profile trial where he faced 32 charges, including rape, sexual exploitation, and human trafficking. He was first arrested in 2017.

 

Police Commissioner General Fannie Masemola told reporters that Omotosho was apprehended shortly after a church service. “He will face charges for violating the Immigration Act and is scheduled to appear in court on Monday,” Masemola stated.

 

South Africa’s Minister of Home Affairs, Leon Schreiber, confirmed the arrest followed Omotosho’s unsuccessful attempt to overturn a prior decision declaring him a prohibited person. “After a thorough review, the department upheld the decision. To enforce compliance with the Republic’s laws, Omotosho will appear in court on Monday, 12 May 2025,” the ministry said in a statement.

 

In April, Judge Irma Schoeman of the Eastern Cape High Court acquitted Omotosho and his two co-accused, criticizing the prosecution for failing to present sufficient evidence to secure a conviction.