Apollo Quiboloy, the self-proclaimed “Owner of the Universe” and influential pastor of the Kingdom of Jesus Christ (KOJC), was apprehended in the Philippines on Sunday following an extensive manhunt. Quiboloy, who faces serious charges including child sex trafficking and sexual abuse, was captured after a dramatic operation involving over 2,000 police officers, helicopters, and advanced thermal imaging technology.
The arrest came after a more than two-week search of Quiboloy’s 74-acre compound in Davao City. Authorities had suspected that he was hiding in a bunker on the property, which is owned by his church. During the search, Quiboloy’s followers attempted to thwart the operation by blocking the compound’s gates, while police deployed shield-carrying units to enforce the court order for his arrest. Helicopters were utilized to survey the area, including a cathedral, a college, and a stadium with a capacity of 75,000 seats.
In a high-tech effort to locate Quiboloy, police employed thermal imaging and radar technology to detect a human body’s warmth and heartbeat underground. This sophisticated equipment played a crucial role in pinpointing his location.
Quiboloy, a prominent figure and former ally of ex-Philippines President Rodrigo Duterte, is wanted on multiple charges including child and sexual abuse. He is also listed on the FBI’s “Most Wanted” list for sex trafficking. The US Justice Department charged him in 2021 with trafficking girls and women aged 12 to 25 to serve as personal assistants, known as “pastorals,” who were allegedly coerced into sexual acts with him.
Additional accusations against Quiboloy include bulk cash smuggling and operating a fraudulent visa scheme. His church members were reportedly brought to the United States under false pretenses, forced to solicit donations for a fake charity. The funds were allegedly diverted to support church operations and the luxurious lifestyles of its leaders.
Sources By Agencies
