South African authorities are set to challenge the recent acquittal of Timothy Omotoso, head of the Jesus Dominion International Church, as he faces allegations from multiple victims.
South Africa Plans Appeal Against Acquitted Pastor Timothy Omotoso
South Africa Plans Appeal Against Acquitted Pastor Timothy Omotoso
Legal action to continue against Nigerian televangelist despite acquittal of rape charges.
South African authorities have announced their decision to continue legal actions against Timothy Omotoso, the Nigerian pastor recently acquitted of multiple rape charges. Despite his departure from the country, the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) intends to appeal the verdict. Omotoso was accused of sexually assaulting young women affiliated with his church in Port Elizabeth, leading to a trial that marked a historic moment as the first high-profile rape case broadcast live in South Africa.
Mr. Omotoso, who denied all allegations of the 32 charges against him, left South Africa voluntarily after the court ruled in his favor. Reports indicate that he departed from OR Tambo International Airport, sporting a hoodie and dark sunglasses. The NPA highlighted that while they found no legal grounds to prevent Omotoso from exiting the country, they are prepared to seek his extradition back to South Africa if their appeal is granted, due to existing bilateral agreements with Nigeria.
Omotoso’s legal troubles began in 2017 when he was arrested while attempting to leave South Africa. Among his accusers was a woman who alleged to have been raped by him at the age of 14. Following his acquittal, the authorities also mentioned potential immigration issues for Omotoso, who could face a five-year ban from re-entering South Africa due to his alleged illegal residency. His church, with branches in various countries, continues to operate amidst the ongoing legal saga that has garnered significant public attention.
Stay tuned for updates on this developing story as South African authorities pursue justice in this high-profile case.
Mr. Omotoso, who denied all allegations of the 32 charges against him, left South Africa voluntarily after the court ruled in his favor. Reports indicate that he departed from OR Tambo International Airport, sporting a hoodie and dark sunglasses. The NPA highlighted that while they found no legal grounds to prevent Omotoso from exiting the country, they are prepared to seek his extradition back to South Africa if their appeal is granted, due to existing bilateral agreements with Nigeria.
Omotoso’s legal troubles began in 2017 when he was arrested while attempting to leave South Africa. Among his accusers was a woman who alleged to have been raped by him at the age of 14. Following his acquittal, the authorities also mentioned potential immigration issues for Omotoso, who could face a five-year ban from re-entering South Africa due to his alleged illegal residency. His church, with branches in various countries, continues to operate amidst the ongoing legal saga that has garnered significant public attention.
Stay tuned for updates on this developing story as South African authorities pursue justice in this high-profile case.
