South Africa's National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) has announced plans to appeal the acquittal of Timothy Omotoso, a Nigerian pastor who faced allegations of sexual assault against young women from his church. Despite his departure from the country, the authorities have indicated their intention to extradite him if the appeal is successful.
South Africa to Challenge Acquittal of Nigerian Televangelist Timothy Omotoso
South Africa to Challenge Acquittal of Nigerian Televangelist Timothy Omotoso
South African authorities are taking steps to appeal the recent acquittal of prominent Nigerian pastor Timothy Omotoso on multiple rape charges.
South African officials are determined to pursue legal actions against Timothy Omotoso, who was acquitted of all charges last month. The NPA revealed today that it would appeal the judgement, asserting that his physical presence in the country is not necessary for the process. Reports indicate that Omotoso was captured on camera at the OR Tambo International Airport, heading back to Nigeria while wearing a hoodie and dark sunglasses.
Despite his acquittal, the pastor has faced additional legal hurdles, notably issues surrounding his immigration status in South Africa, which have led to a potential five-year ban. Omotoso was first arrested in 2017 while attempting to leave the country and has been a controversial figure, with a trial that drew significant media attention as South Africa's first high-profile rape case to be broadcast live. The trial involved severe allegations, including claims made by a woman who stated she was raped by him at the age of 14.
The NPA acknowledged the current impossibility of preventing his departure but emphasized that their appeal could lead to an extradition application based on South Africa's existing treaty with Nigeria. Omotoso is the leader of the Jesus Dominion International Church, which has congregations in various countries including the UK, Nigeria, France, and Israel among others.
As this case unfolds, it adds to the ongoing dialogue around high-profile sexual assault cases in South Africa and raises further questions regarding the legal proceedings involved.
Despite his acquittal, the pastor has faced additional legal hurdles, notably issues surrounding his immigration status in South Africa, which have led to a potential five-year ban. Omotoso was first arrested in 2017 while attempting to leave the country and has been a controversial figure, with a trial that drew significant media attention as South Africa's first high-profile rape case to be broadcast live. The trial involved severe allegations, including claims made by a woman who stated she was raped by him at the age of 14.
The NPA acknowledged the current impossibility of preventing his departure but emphasized that their appeal could lead to an extradition application based on South Africa's existing treaty with Nigeria. Omotoso is the leader of the Jesus Dominion International Church, which has congregations in various countries including the UK, Nigeria, France, and Israel among others.
As this case unfolds, it adds to the ongoing dialogue around high-profile sexual assault cases in South Africa and raises further questions regarding the legal proceedings involved.
