Philippine authorities on Sunday announced the arrest of Apollo Quiboloy, an influential evangelist preacher accused of sex trafficking and sexual abuse. Quiboloy, who calls himself the “owner of the universe” and “appointed son of god,” has been a fugitive facing charges of child and sexual abuse, as well as human trafficking allegations.
Interior Secretary Benjamin Abalos Jr. confirmed the arrest on his Facebook page, stating simply, “Apollo Quiboloy has been caught,” without providing specific details about the arrest operation.
Quiboloy, who has consistently denied any wrongdoing, is also listed on the FBI’s “most wanted” list in the United States. He faces separate charges there for sex trafficking and bulk cash smuggling.
The arrest comes after an extensive search operation involving over 2,000 police officers. Since last month, authorities had been searching a sprawling compound in the southern city of Davao owned by Quiboloy’s church, the Kingdom of Jesus Christ (KOJC), suspecting he might be hiding in a bunker on the premises.
Philippine police spokesperson Jean Fajardo confirmed to reporters that Quiboloy was captured inside the compound. Later, Fajardo revealed that Quiboloy and four co-accused were transported by military plane to the capital region on Sunday night after surrendering to authorities. The group is now detained at a facility within the national police headquarters.
“At around 1:30 pm (0530 GMT), a negotiation took place for their surrender because we gave them a 24-hour ultimatum,” Fajardo explained to reporters.
Quiboloy commands a following of millions in the Philippines, where religious leaders often wield significant influence in politics. He is known for his close friendship with former president Rodrigo Duterte.
The arrest marks a significant development in a case that has drawn international attention. It highlights the ongoing challenges faced by Philippine authorities in addressing allegations of abuse within powerful religious organizations.
As the legal process unfolds, the case is likely to be closely watched both in the Philippines and internationally, given Quiboloy’s high profile and the serious nature of the charges against him.
