Pastor Timothy Omotoso Acquitted of Rape and Human Trafficking Charges in South Africa

The 66-year-old clergyman had been in custody since his 2017 arrest, facing 63 charges, including sexual assault, human trafficking, and racketeering. He was accused of exploiting young women—some of them minors and members of the gospel group Grace Galaxy—within his ministry.

According to The South African, Judge Irma Schoeman ruled that the prosecution failed to prove the allegations beyond a reasonable doubt. Omotoso and his two co-accused, Lusanda Sulani and Zukiswa Sitho, were cleared of all charges and released.

The two women were alleged to have recruited girls into the church, where they were reportedly subjected to abuse. However, the court found the evidence and cross-examination insufficient to secure a conviction.

“The accused are found not guilty and are discharged on all charges,” Judge Schoeman ruled.

The case had faced several delays over the years, including changes in legal representation and judicial recusals. At one point, Omotoso’s legal team filed for the case to be struck out entirely.

Following the ruling, Omotoso and one of his co-defendants were seen kneeling in prayer inside the courtroom.

His acquittal has stirred mixed reactions, especially amid South Africa’s ongoing struggle with high rates of sexual violence. In 2023–2024 alone, the country recorded over 42,000 rape cases.

Omotoso’s church in Port Elizabeth was shut down after his arrest, amid protests and public outrage. Unconfirmed reports also indicated that at least one woman who testified against him received death threats prior to the trial.

Jesus Dominion International had gained notoriety for its promises of miracles and prophetic deliverance, with a choir that included uniformed young women—some of whom previously appeared on the South African TV talent show Idols.

Now a free man after nearly eight years behind bars, Omotoso’s future—and that of his ministry—remains uncertain.