A Nigerian televangelist recently acquitted of rape and other serious charges has left South Africa, local media reported.
His departure comes just days after prosecutors announced plans to reopen the case.
Pastor Timothy Omotoso, 66, was found not guilty last month on 32 charges, including rape, sexual exploitation, and human trafficking. He had spent eight years in custody.
The ruling sparked outrage in South Africa. Many citizens criticized the way the prosecution handled the case.
According to SABC and Newsroom Afrika, Omotoso was seen on Sunday at Johannesburg’s OR Tambo International Airport.
He wore a grey hoodie and sunglasses and was seen speaking to an immigration officer.
The exact time of his flight was not confirmed.
A transport ministry official told AFP that Omotoso did not need special clearance to leave the country.
The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) said it would appeal the acquittal and review how the case was managed.
“The NPA takes the view that there are reasonable prospects of a successful appeal despite the complexities of the legal process,” the agency stated.
Omotoso leads the Jesus Dominion International (JDI) church, based in Durban. The church also has branches in Nigeria and Israel, according to South African authorities.
On May 10, Omotoso was rearrested on immigration charges. Officials said he was to be deported.
However, a magistrate ruled that he could not be detained for more than 48 hours without a formal charge. The court ordered his release.
(AFP)
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