Nigerian televangelist pastor, Tim Omotoso of the Jesus Dominion Int’l church, Durbam, who was accused of child sex abuse and human trafficking has be
Nigerian televangelist pastor, Tim Omotoso of the Jesus Dominion Int’l church, Durbam, who was accused of child sex abuse and human trafficking has been denied bail by the Magistrate’s Court at Port Elizabeth, South Africa. The court said there is a likelihood he would flee South Africa if granted bail.
According to Magistrate Thandeka Mashiyi who made the judgement, she said that Omotosho whose family are all UK nationals, faced a sentence of at least life imprisonment. He is also accused of using fraudulent travel documentation.
“His family, wife and children are all United Kingdom citizens, his church has international branches which he visits from time to time, he is regarded as an illegal immigrant [and] there is nothing tying the applicant to South Africa. Based on the strength of the State’s case, the gravity of the offences, as well as if convicted, the applicant faces very lengthy sentences. I find that there is a likelihood that if he is released on bail he might attempt to flee and evade his trial,” Mashiyi said.
The case’s investig ating officer, warrant officer Peter Plaatjies, gave testimony against the pastor. He said senior members of the minister’s church would draw vulnerable girls aged 13-15 into the church and have them perform sexual acts with him.
The pastor who has been in jail since April 20th is charged with having trafficked more than 30 girls and women who were part of his nationwide church network. He allegedly sexually abused the trafficked girls at a house in Umhlanga, near Durban.
Evidence was given suggesting Omotoso had the means to intimidate victims and witnesses and provoke them not to testify against him. His child victims were reportedly told not to tell anyone what had happened or they would be ‘cursed and die’.
Outside the court during his hearing, Omotoso’s supporters from his church prayed for him, while his opponents celebrated the bail denial, calling it a victory to the nation and to the society at large.
The case has now been adjourned until July 21.
