What's happened
A police siege continues at the Davao City compound of Apollo Quiboloy, a preacher wanted by the FBI for child trafficking. Clashes with his supporters have resulted in injuries and one death. Authorities are determined to apprehend him amid allegations of sexual abuse and human trafficking.
Why it matters
What the papers say
According to Metro, the police have faced significant resistance from Quiboloy's supporters, who have obstructed their efforts and clashed with officers, resulting in injuries and one death. The South China Morning Post notes that the political landscape is tense, with Duterte criticizing the police raid as an abuse of power. The Independent highlights the serious allegations against Quiboloy, including sex trafficking and child abuse, which have been denied by him and his followers. This multifaceted situation illustrates the intersection of crime, politics, and religion in the Philippines.
How we got here
Apollo Quiboloy, founder of the Kingdom of Jesus Christ, has been evading arrest since 2022 after being indicted by U.S. federal prosecutors for serious crimes, including sex trafficking. His close ties to former President Duterte have complicated the situation.
More on these topics
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Apollo Carreon Quiboloy is a Filipino pastor and church leader of the Philippines-based Restorationist church called the Kingdom of Jesus Christ. He has made claims that he is "The Appointed Son of God" as well as being "The Owner of the Universe".
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The Federal Bureau of Investigation is the domestic intelligence and security service of the United States and its principal federal law enforcement agency.