Timothy Omotoso Faces Deportation From SA
Nigerian televangelist Timothy Omotoso has been arrested again—this time for contravening South Africa’s immigration laws—just weeks after his high-profile acquittal on 32 serious criminal charges, including rape, human trafficking, and sexual assault. He is now facing deportation from South Africa after being declared a “prohibited person”.
“Televangelist #TimothyOmotoso will appear in court on Monday on charges of contravening the Immigration Act,” tweeted veteran SABC broadcaster Chriselda Lewis, who broke the story.
“The Department of Home Affairs says Omotoso was declared as a prohibited person in the country… The Minister upheld it.”
The arrest was carried out early on Saturday, 10 May 2025, in East London. It was led by officers from the Justice, Crime Prevention and Security Cluster (JCPS), according to a government statement.
Deportation follows Minister’s decision
The Department of Home Affairs confirmed that Omotoso’s application to overturn his prohibited status in South Africa was officially denied by the Minister.
“The arrest follows the decision of the Minister of Home Affairs to reject the application submitted by Omotoso in terms of section 8(7) of the Immigration Act,” said the statement released on Saturday.
“The Minister’s decision means that Omotoso is now illegally in the Republic of South Africa and, therefore, subject to deportation.”
Although a court had previously instructed the department to reconsider the matter, the Minister ultimately chose to uphold the earlier decision that Omotoso was a prohibited person and should not remain in the country.
“After carefully reconsidering the matter, the Minister upheld the decision to declare Omotoso as a prohibited person.”
The Department stressed that the arrest was made “in order to ensure compliance with the laws of the Republic.”
Omotoso is due to appear at East London Magistrates’ Court on Monday, 12 May 2025, facing charges related to violating immigration legislation.
Mixed reactions online as citizens speak out
South Africans took to X (formerly Twitter) within minutes of the news breaking, and reactions were swift, passionate, and divided.
“It took them long enough, siyambongela uMrev,”
wrote @Trevor_Not_Noah, using a colloquial phrase meaning “we congratulate the Reverend.”
Others expressed frustration that action was only taken after the rape trial concluded.
“Why is this coming out now… the guy has been here for ages,” asked @PhanuelMoroe.
Some noted the perceived leniency of the justice system.
“We will never forget that the South African National Prosecuting Authority failed to convict this Omotoso on charges of human trafficking, rape, sexual harassment, kidnapping,” posted @MotenegiMasilo.
“No amount of other arrest will make us forget how South African law system failed us.”
Another user, @ArtandSoulJHB, remarked:
“And still busy trying to claim money for unlawful arrest…”
Still, many others praised Home Affairs Minister Leon Schreiber for standing firm.
“Well done Minister of @HomeAffairsSA. SIYABULELA MPHATHISWA,” said @Sibalukhul91101, using the isiXhosa phrase for “we thank you, Minister.”
What happens next?
Omotoso was a central figure in one of South Africa’s most watched court cases over the last decade. His trial dragged on for years, with multiple delays, eventually ending in April 2025 when he was acquitted of all 32 charges.
The latest arrest is not connected to the sexual offence allegations but is instead rooted in immigration violations. His application to regularise his presence in South Africa was turned down, meaning he has no legal grounds to remain in the country.
“The Department of Home Affairs continues to be guided by our unwavering commitment to upholding the rule of law without fear or favour,” the Department said.
It is not yet clear whether Omotoso has been granted bail or will remain in custody until his court appearance.
With South Africa’s eyes once again on him, Monday’s court session could determine how soon the controversial preacher may be deported.