Authorities Storm Religious Leader’s Base Over Serious Allegations

Police raided a Filipino preacher’s compound amid child abuse and human trafficking allegations, leaving the public divided and questioning.

At a Glance

Hundreds of police officers raided a religious compound in Davao city, Philippines, searching for preacher Apollo Quiboloy
The raid was in response to allegations of sexual abuse and human trafficking against Quiboloy
Police used specialized equipment but did not find Quiboloy in the 30-hectare compound
Quiboloy and his lawyer deny the allegations, calling them fabrications

Extensive Police Raid

Hundreds of police officers raided a religious compound in Davao City, Philippines, searching for preacher Apollo Quiboloy. The operation came in response to serious allegations of child abuse and human trafficking. Authorities employed advanced equipment to locate individuals hidden within the 30-hectare site. Despite their efforts, Quiboloy was not found on the premises.

Quiboloy, who claims to be the “appointed son of God,” has a substantial following. He and his lawyer have rejected all allegations, asserting that critics and former members fabricate the charges. His followers, who were present during the raid, protested and recorded the event, questioning its legality.

Hundreds of police raid a religious compound in search of Filipino preacher wanted for child abuse https://t.co/j0xbpmpIBB

— KVIA ABC-7 News (@KVIAABC7News) August 24, 2024

Grave Allegations

The police aimed to serve no-bail warrants for Quiboloy and four others for severe crimes, including human trafficking and child abuse. According to Police Brigadier General Nicolas Torre III, the law enforcement team was unwavering in its commitment to apprehend the suspects. ”We won’t leave here until we get him,” Torre told reporters as sirens blared in the background. “We have no-bail warrants for Quiboloy and four others for very grave crimes, including human trafficking, child abuse, and other cases.”

A supporter of the Kingdom of Jesus Christ group tragically died of a heart attack during the raid, although this incident was unrelated to police actions. The compound, which includes over 40 buildings, features a cathedral, a school, residential areas, a hangar, and a taxiway leading to Davao International Airport.

Hundreds of police raid a religious compound in search of Filipino preacher wanted for child abuse https://t.co/W9GQ2eZvaS

— CTV News (@CTVNews) August 24, 2024

Background and Reactions

In 2021, U.S. federal prosecutors indicted Quiboloy on charges of sex trafficking and various other offenses. Following a Philippine court’s order for his arrest, Quiboloy went into hiding. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has urged Quiboloy to surrender, promising him fair treatment. Former President Rodrigo Duterte, who has appeared on Quiboloy’s news program and been a close supporter, criticized past police attempts to detain the preacher as excessive.

The International Criminal Court is also investigating Duterte’s anti-drug measures, which led to thousands of deaths, for potential crimes against humanity. This incident has raised broader concerns about child abuse in religious settings and the necessity for robust prevention and justice measures. As the community waits for further developments, the impact on Quiboloy’s group and broader discussions on religious oversight remain critically important.