The high-profile Timothy Omotoso case is set to return to the Eastern Cape High Court in Gqeberha on July 14, 2025, marking the start of the appeal process following his acquittal on 32 serious charges earlier this year.
Judge Irma Schoeman, who originally acquitted Omotoso and his co-accused on charges including rape, human trafficking, and racketeering, has ordered both the State and defense to argue on whether questions of law can be reserved for appeal under Section 319 of the Criminal Procedure Act.
The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), led by Eastern Cape Director of Public Prosecutions Barry Madolo, is seeking to clarify factual findings from the initial judgment to prepare appeal papers for the Supreme Court of Appeal. The NPA remains confident about its prospects, pointing to alleged errors in the trial judgment despite the case’s complexity and extensive court transcripts.
The defense is staunchly opposing the appeal, making this hearing a crucial turning point in a case that has fueled intense public debate over sexual and gender-based violence prosecutions in South Africa.
Adding to the case’s complexity, the NPA is conducting an internal investigation into prosecutorial conduct, with a report expected soon, amid concerns over misconduct and erosion of public trust in the justice system.
Separately, Omotoso is also embroiled in a deportation case after his arrest in May 2025 for allegedly breaching the Immigration Act, keeping the spotlight firmly on this controversial figure.
