Recent news has confirmed a huge stand-off has erupted as thousands of police attempted to apprehend Pastor Apollo Quiboloy. The latter has been accused of many crimes, including bulk cash smuggling and child sex trafficking.
Pastor Quiboloy is under FBI watch as the US Department of Justice made the charges. The Philippine National Police (PNP) had raided the compound of the religious group, the Kingdom of Jesus Christ (KOJC), late Saturday.
Several reports stated that Quiboloy’s followers have become unruly and violent towards them. Hundreds of followers have even blocked parts of major highways in a “prayer rally,” attempting to disrupt traffic and entry to the compound.
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Davao police spokesperson Major Catherina dela Rey confirmed the reports and said that they used tear gas to maintain order. Authorities have arrested more than a dozen protesters as a result. In fact, one of the members passed away from a heart attack during the raid.
The PNP believes that Pastor Apollo Quiboloy is hiding in an underground bunker located on the compound. Dela Rey stated that they also believe the bunker has equipment that can detect people behind walls based on their heartbeat.
Recent news about Apollo Quiboloy includes accusations that he trafficked followers to the US to solicit donations for fraudulent charities. He is also accused of coercing female followers, including minors, into having sex with him as part of a “religious duty.”
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In light of the news, Apollo Quiboloy released a statement last April: “I am not hiding from the charges because I am guilty. That’s not true. I am just protecting myself.”
Pastor Apollo Quiboloy has denied the charges and accused US authorities of pre-judging his case. Courts in the US and the Philippines have issued warrants for his arrest.
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