KEY POINTS
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Nigerian televangelist Timothy Omotoso was arrested in East London on Saturday for alleged immigration violations, weeks after being acquitted of rape and trafficking charges.
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Authorities say the arrest was carried out by SAPS and Home Affairs officials, and he is expected to appear in court on Monday.
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The case reignites public debate over the regulation of foreign religious leaders in South Africa and the limits of legal accountability in high-profile cases.
Nigerian-born televangelist Timothy Omotoso, a figure long associated with controversy in South Africa’s religious and legal spheres, was arrested early Saturday morning in Eastern Cape by officers from the South African Police Service (SAPS) and the Department of Home Affairs Immigration Inspectorate.
The 66-year-old leader of the Jesus Dominion International (JDI) church was apprehended around 5 a.m., shortly after leaving church premises. His arrest was confirmed by SAPS National Commissioner, General Fanie Masemola, who stated that Omotoso was taken into custody for alleged violations of South Africa’s Immigration Act.
“This morning in East London at about 5am, the Department of Home Affairs Immigration Inspectorate, together with the South African Police Service, arrested Omotoso in the town just after the church,” said Masemola. “He will be facing charges relating to the violation of the Immigration Act.”
Omotoso is currently being held at the Mdantsane police station and is expected to appear in court on Monday to face the new charges. Authorities have not yet disclosed the specific nature of the alleged immigration violations, but legal experts say the arrest could mark the beginning of yet another prolonged legal chapter for the embattled preacher.
Fresh legal trouble for Timothy Omotoso after high-profile acquittal
IOL reports that the arrest comes just weeks after Omotoso was controversially acquitted of multiple serious charges, including rape, human trafficking, and sexual assault. He and his co-accused, Lusanda Sulani and Zikiswa Sitho, faced a total of 32 counts in a trial that spanned nearly eight years and attracted widespread media attention.
Dubbed “the man of God” by his followers, Omotoso had maintained his innocence throughout, but the verdict sparked public outcry, especially among gender-based violence advocacy groups. The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) has since confirmed it is reviewing the possibility of appealing the decision.
Following the acquittal, the CRL Rights Commission announced it would launch an independent investigation into the case’s handling, citing concerns about systemic failure and the protection of vulnerable witnesses.
“This arrest adds a new dimension to an already polarising figure,” said political analyst Nkosinathi Mthembu. “Even though the rape case was dismissed, the legal system is clearly not done with him.”
According to insiders at the Department of Home Affairs, Omotoso’s residency status had come under scrutiny several times in the past, but investigations were suspended while his criminal trial was ongoing. Officials now believe there is sufficient basis to pursue legal action based on new documentation and administrative discrepancies.
Immigration analysts say the arrest could have significant implications for foreign religious leaders operating in South Africa, especially those from West African countries.
“There needs to be a thorough review of how work permits, residency visas, and religious operation licenses are issued and monitored,” said immigration attorney Lunga Mapasa. “This case could force authorities to introduce tighter regulations for foreign clerics who establish large ministries without adequate oversight.”
