Nigerian televangelist Timothy Omotoso, recently acquitted of multiple rape charges, was scheduled to leave South Africa on Sunday, local media reported just days after state prosecutors announced plans to appeal the ruling.

Omotoso, 66, was acquitted last month of 32 charges, including rape, sexual exploitation, and human trafficking, following nearly eight years in detention. The court's decision sparked widespread outrage across South Africa, with the presiding judge citing prosecutorial missteps as a key factor in the acquittal.

According to reports from state broadcaster SABC and Newsroom Afrika, Omotoso was seen at Johannesburg’s OR Tambo International Airport wearing a grey hoodie and sunglasses while speaking with immigration officials. It remains unclear when exactly his flight was scheduled to depart.

An official from South Africa’s transport ministry confirmed to AFP that Omotoso did not require special clearance to exit the country.

Earlier this week, the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) stated its intention to appeal the acquittal and indicated it would also investigate the conduct of the prosecution team involved in the case.

“The NPA believes there are reasonable prospects for a successful appeal, despite the legal complexities,” the authority said in a statement.

Omotoso is the founder of Jesus Dominion International (JDI), a church headquartered in Durban, South Africa, with branches reportedly located in Nigeria and Israel.

Following his acquittal, Omotoso was rearrested on May 10 on immigration-related charges. However, a magistrate court ordered his release this week, ruling that he could not be detained for more than 48 hours without formal charges.

The South African government has since confirmed that he is subject to deportation.