Philippine Preacher Quiboloy Arrested on Sex Trafficking Charges

In a significant development, Apollo Quiboloy, a prominent evangelist from the Philippines, has been apprehended, according to Interior Secretary Benjamin Abalos Jr. The arrest comes amidst serious allegations of sex trafficking and sexual abuse against the controversial religious figure.

Quiboloy, who founded the Kingdom of Jesus Christ (KOJC) in 1985, has gained notoriety for his extravagant claims, including self-proclaiming as the "owner of the universe" and the "appointed son of god." Despite his assertions, he now faces grave accusations that extend beyond national borders.

The charges against Quiboloy are not limited to the Philippines. The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) in the United States has placed him on their "most wanted" list, citing additional charges of sex trafficking and bulk cash smuggling. These allegations have cast a shadow over his religious organization, which claims to have over 6 million followers worldwide.

Last month, Philippine authorities deployed over 2,000 police officers to search a sprawling compound in Davao City, known as the "Garden of Eden Restored," owned by Quiboloy's church. The operation was based on suspicions that the preacher might be hiding in a bunker within the premises.

Quiboloy's influence in the Philippines extends beyond religious circles. He owns a TV network called Sonshine Media Network International and has been a close friend of former president Rodrigo Duterte since the 1970s. This connection has raised questions about the intersection of religious influence and political power in the country.

The allegations against Quiboloy are particularly disturbing. He has been accused of running a sex trafficking operation that threatened victims as young as 12 with "eternal damnation." These claims starkly contrast with his church's public image, which includes operating a children's foundation called Children's Joy Foundation.

"Quiboloy and his associates are believed to have recruited females aged 12 to 25 as personal assistants, or 'pastorals.' Victims prepared Quiboloy's meals, cleaned his residences, gave him massages and were required to have sex with Quiboloy in what the pastorals called 'night duty.'"

The preacher's lavish lifestyle, including ownership of a private jet and a $2.1 million mansion in Los Angeles County, has come under scrutiny. These assets have been linked to allegations of bulk cash smuggling and forcing church members to solicit donations for a supposedly bogus children's charity.

As the legal proceedings unfold, the case continues to draw international attention. Quiboloy has been banned from entering New Zealand since 2020, reflecting the global repercussions of the allegations against him. Despite the mounting evidence and his arrest, Quiboloy maintains his innocence, denying all wrongdoing.

This case highlights the complex interplay between religious authority, political connections, and criminal allegations in the Philippines. As the investigation progresses, it may have far-reaching implications for religious organizations and their leaders in the country.