Police have foiled violent clashes between Nigerian Pastor, Timothy Omotoso’s supporters and members of some political parties outside the East London Magistrates Court.
The televangelist faces deportation after his arrest on Saturday for allegedly flouting immigration laws.
His arrest follows the Home Affairs Minister’s rejection of an application submitted by Omotoso that sought to overturn an earlier decision to declare Omotoso a prohibited person.
Timothy Omotoso
Police said he contravened the Immigration Act after failing to overturn a bid by the Home Affairs Department, which declares him a prohibited person.
His arrest comes a month after he was acquitted of rape and sexual offence related charges.
Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) and African National Congress (ANC) supporters, joined community members outside court where Omotoso is expected to appear.
Earlier on Monday, scuffles broke out between the supporters of Omotoso’s church members, accusing the government of harassing their leader.
Community members said that whatever happens in court on Monday, they want Omotoso to be deported back to his country.
EFF central command team member Inam Kula said, “We are here to demonstrate to and say to the judiciary and home affairs that we do not want Omotoso here in South Africa and that he has not place in South Africa.”
The accused pastor was recently cleared on a number of rape and sexual offence charges.
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