A long international manhunt ends with the arrest of former FBI most-wanted preacher in the Philippines for child sex abuse.
At a Glance
- Apollo Quiboloy, a self-proclaimed “appointed son of God,” was arrested on charges of human trafficking and sexual abuse.
- Arrest ended a two-week standoff at his religious compound in Davao.
- Quiboloy was a trusted adviser to former President Rodrigo Duterte and has significant political influence.
- Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. assured there would be no special treatment.
- U.S. federal prosecutors indicted Quiboloy in Nov. 2021 for child trafficking and other crimes.
International Manhunt Concludes
Apollo Quiboloy, a Filipino evangelist preacher previously on the FBI’s most-wanted list, was apprehended in the Philippines on charges of child sex abuse. Quiboloy, a self-proclaimed “appointed son of God,” was taken into custody at his religious compound in Davao after a two-week standoff.
The significant arrest was possible due to a collaborative effort between U.S. and Filipino law enforcement agencies. Quiboloy had evaded capture for a considerable period, exploiting cross-border challenges to remain at large. Authorities located him and took him into custody, ensuring he would face prosecution.
Details Surrounding the Arrest
Quiboloy’s arrest unfolded dramatically. For weeks, over 2,000 police officers and hundreds of soldiers surrounded his compound. This led to violent clashes, resulting in one fatality. He was finally found hiding in the compound’s “bible school” and surrendered peacefully after a 24-hour ultimatum. He was then flown to Manila and placed in police detention.
Impact on Victims and Authorities
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. made it clear that there would be “no special treatment” for Quiboloy. This development came amidst indictments by U.S. federal prosecutors in November 2021 for child trafficking, sex trafficking, and other crimes. Additionally, the U.S. Treasury sanctioned Quiboloy in December 2022 for serious human rights abuses.
The arrest marks a significant moment, providing a glimmer of hope for the victims. They may finally see justice after years of waiting. Quiboloy had a significant political influence and was a trusted spiritual adviser to former President Rodrigo Duterte.
Challenges and Allegations
Quiboloy is accused of bringing church members to the U.S. on fraudulent visas and forcing them to solicit donations for his lavish lifestyle. In the U.S., authorities have presented evidence of 82 fraudulent weddings involving KOJC workers to clandestinely enter the country.
Despite denying all wrongdoing, Quiboloy eventually surrendered to avoid further escalations. His influence extended to significant political circles, including his involvement with Duterte. Furthermore, Quiboloy’s arrest strained the alliance between President Marcos and Vice President Sara Duterte, making it a high-stakes situation for the Philippines’ political landscape.
