A tense standoff has unfolded in the Philippines as thousands of police officers have surrounded the vast religious compound of Apollo Quiboloy, an influential pastor accused of child sex trafficking and other serious crimes. Quiboloy, who self-identifies as the “appointed Son of God,” is believed to be hiding within his sprawling 30-hectare complex, which includes multiple buildings, a cathedral, a school, and even a hangar. Despite months of searching, authorities have yet to apprehend him.

The Kingdom of Jesus Christ (KOJC) compound, where Quiboloy is reportedly hiding, was raided by police late on Saturday. The situation escalated when officers used tear gas against Quiboloy’s followers, who had become unruly and violent, according to Davao police spokesperson Major Catherina dela Rey. In response, hundreds of Quiboloy’s followers have blocked parts of a major highway, disrupting traffic and maintaining his innocence, claiming that the charges against him are fabricated. Tragically, one supporter died from a heart attack during the raid.

Quiboloy, who leads a Christian sect claiming seven million followers, has been on the run for months. He faces allegations of trafficking his followers to the United States to solicit donations for fraudulent charities and of sexually abusing female followers, some of whom were minors. Despite the serious nature of the charges, Quiboloy insists that he is not guilty, attributing his legal troubles to the “devil” and stating that he is merely protecting himself from unjust accusations.

Quiboloy’s influence extends beyond his religious role; he has strong political connections, particularly as a spiritual adviser to former President Rodrigo Duterte. His rise to prominence paralleled Duterte’s own, with both men hailing from Davao. However, since Duterte’s departure from office in 2022, authorities have intensified their efforts to bring Quiboloy to justice.

The charges against Quiboloy are severe, with both the U.S. and Philippine governments pursuing him for human trafficking, sexual harassment, and other crimes. Despite his denials, courts in both countries have issued warrants for his arrest, and the FBI has released a wanted poster seeking information on his whereabouts. As the standoff continues, the world watches closely, waiting to see how this dramatic chapter in Quiboloy’s controversial life will unfold.