The long-awaited case of Timothy Omotoso, a Nigerian national accused of serious criminal activities, is set for closing arguments in January, following significant progress in the past few days. The trial, which has been delayed for nearly eight years, has finally seen movement after several setbacks since Omotoso’s arrest in April 2017.
Luxolo Tyali of the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) described the recent developments as “remarkable,” given the numerous delays that have plagued the case. Over the years, several witnesses dropped out, unwilling to relive their traumatic experiences in court, which led to a reduction in charges from 63 to 32.
Omotoso, aged 63, faces charges including racketeering, human trafficking, rape, and sexual assault. He is accused of leading the Jesus Dominion International (JDI) church, which had major branches in South Africa, Nigeria, and Israel. His two South African co-accused have been granted bail, while Omotoso remains in custody.
The allegations state that Omotoso and his co-accused manipulated women, mainly church congregants and employees, under the guise of spiritual benefits. The victims were allegedly lured to travel to Omotoso’s hotel in Durban, Israel, or Nigeria, where they were subjected to strict house rules, including limited contact with others and enforced isolation. Omotoso would then reportedly select women for sexual exploitation.
Tyali reiterated the NPA’s commitment to ensuring the case is concluded swiftly, aiming to deliver justice for the victims involved.
