PNP to charge Quiboloy coddlers

THE Philippine National Police (PNP) will file charges of obstruction of justice against individuals who helped Kingdom of Jesus (KoJC) leader Apollo Quiboloy evade arrest. Quiboloy is facing multiple charges, including child sexual abuse and qualified human trafficking. He surrendered inside the KoJC compound in Davao City a week ago following an assault by 2,000 police officers. In a statement Sunday, PNP chief Gen. Rommel Francisco Marbil said, "We will not tolerate any form of obstruction to justice." "Our investigation aims to identify those who knowingly provided refuge to Quiboloy, and we will ensure they face appropriate legal consequences," he added. Marbil said the televangelist could not have eluded arrest without the assistance of close associates, including legal representatives who misled authorities about his whereabouts. "Obstruction of justice is a serious offense, and those who aided in shielding Quiboloy from law enforcement will be charged accordingly. The law is clear — no one is above it, and those who helped Quiboloy will be held accountable," he said. The Criminal Investigation and Detection Group, led by Maj. Gen. Leo Francisco, will spearhead efforts to gather evidence and ensure the people who aided and abetted him are brought to justice. Local Government Secretary Benhur Abalos had warned that Quiboloy's coddlers would be charged.