Apollo Quiboloy, a Filipino evangelist preacher and self-proclaimed “appointed son of God,” was arrested at his religious compound in Davao, Philippines on charges of human trafficking and sexual abuse. Quiboloy, a trusted adviser of former President Rodrigo Duterte, faces extradition to the United States for allegedly bringing church members on fraudulently obtained visas to solicit donations for his lavish lifestyle. Despite denying all charges, Quiboloy surrendered to authorities to avoid further escalation.
The arrest of Quiboloy, with his face concealed, threatens to deepen a split between powerful political families in the Philippines, as President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. emphasized that no special treatment would be given. Quiboloy’s arrest came after a two-week standoff at his compound, where violent clashes occurred between police and his supporters.
Quiboloy’s downfall follows years of accusations of human rights abuses, including child trafficking and sex trafficking, by U.S. federal prosecutors. Despite being pursued in his home country, Quiboloy continued to evade arrest until recently when police surrounded his compound and unearthed a tunnel to apprehend him.
Members of the Philippine Senate welcomed Quiboloy’s arrest, while others criticized the use of excessive force by authorities. His arrest marks a significant change in fortune for the preacher, who once wielded significant influence and amassed wealth through his religious organization. The pursuit of Quiboloy also reveals a shift in political alliances in the Philippines, as President Marcos severs ties with former allies, including Quiboloy and the Duterte family.
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