Nigerian televangelist, Timothy Omotoso, has been rearrested in South Africa just weeks after his acquittal on multiple rape and trafficking charges.
Authorities from the South African Police Service and the Department of Home Affairs confirmed that Omotoso, 66, was taken into custody early Saturday morning in East London.
His arrest reportedly followed an early morning church service.
Omotoso, who leads the Jesus Dominion International Church in South Africa, was first arrested in 2017 and charged with 32 counts including rape, sexual exploitation, and human trafficking.
Several victims, some of whom were minors at the time, testified that he manipulated them under the guise of spiritual guidance.
Despite the severity of the allegations, Omotoso was acquitted of all charges last month after spending nine years in custody awaiting trial.
National Police Commissioner Fannie Masemola stated that the pastor’s recent arrest stems from immigration violations.
“He was arrested this morning around 5 o’clock in East London,” Masemola said.
“It’s immigration-related, and he’ll appear in court on Monday, where the specific charges will be clarified.”
