The Philippine National Police (PNP) has called upon fugitive televangelist Apollo Quiboloy to surrender and confront allegations of human trafficking and sexual abuse after eluding a third attempt by authorities to apprehend him. According to PNP spokesperson Col. Jean Fajardo, The PNP executed an arrest warrant against Quiboloy at several of his properties in Davao City on Monday.
Although specifics regarding the operation were not immediately provided, Fajardo disclosed that one of the properties targeted was the Prayer Mountain in Barangay Tamayong, where Quiboloy oversees the Kingdom of Jesus Christ (KOJC) sect.
“We appeal to Pastor Quiboloy to turn himself into authorities so he can answer the charges against him,” Fajardo urged during a press briefing at Camp Crame.
While awaiting the operation’s outcome report, Fajardo urged calm among Quiboloy’s supporters to prevent any hindrance to police operations.
The implementation of the arrest warrant signifies the PNP’s belief that Quiboloy remains in the country, as there has been no confirmation of his departure by the Bureau of Immigration.
In a coordinated effort, around a hundred policemen raided three KOJC properties in Davao City, including the compound in Buhangin district, Glory Mountain, and Prayer Mountain. However, Quiboloy and five of his co-accused in the human trafficking case were not found.
At Glory Mountain, five individuals were arrested for carrying bolos during the raid, as confirmed by Quiboloy’s lawyer, Israelito Torreon.
Quiboloy and his coaccused have faced multiple legal challenges, including allegations of child abuse. Despite Senate summonses and arrest orders, Quiboloy has consistently refused to appear for investigations. In April, warrants were issued against him for violations of child protection laws and human trafficking.
The FBI has also labeled Quiboloy as one of America’s most wanted suspected sex traffickers.
Authorities continue to urge cooperation from the public in locating Quiboloy’s whereabouts as legal proceedings against him intensify.
