On February 6, the legal counsel of Kingdom of Jesus Christ founder Apollo Quiboloy claimed that the release of the US Federal Bureau of Investigation’s (FBI) “wanted poster” is an “obviously orchestrated effort” to destroy the pastor’s and the current administration’s reputation.

During an online press conference on SMNI News Channel, Quiboloy’s legal counsel, Atty. Ferdinand Topacio, questioned the release of the poster and claimed that it was only done as part of an orchestrated smear campaign.

CLAIM:

Quiboloy’s legal counsel claims that the release of the FBI “wanted” poster is an “obviously orchestrated effort” to destroy the pastor’s and Duterte administration’s reputation.

RATING:

FALSE

FACT:

On February 5, the US FBI released a wanted poster for Pastor Apollo Quiboloy for charges of “Conspiracy to Engage in Sex Trafficking by Force, Fraud and Coercion, and Sex Trafficking of Children; Sex Trafficking by Force, Fraud, and Coercion; Conspiracy; Bulk Cash Smuggling.”

According to the FBI, the Kingdom of Jesus Christ Executive Pastor was “indicted by a federal grand jury in the United States District Court for the Central District of California, San Ana, California” for the above stated charges. The agency also issued a federal warrant for Quiboloy’s arrest on November 10, 2021.

On November 18, 2021, federal prosecutors in the US released an indictment document that outlines Quiboloy and eight other associates’ 95 counts of overt acts.

While the “wanted poster” has only been released this February, in fact, charges against Quiboloy date as far back as 2005, when he was sued by a former church member, Erlinda Rillon, for allegedly brainwashing and making advances on her young daughter. Several other underage devotees have also come out as victims.

WHY IT MATTERS:

As of writing, the SMNI News Channel Facebook page has 415,278 likes and 937,159 followers. The video of the press conference posted on February 6 has over 11,000 views, 932 reactions, and 217 shares. – Philip Mateo & Lyka Naranjo

Altermidya Network is part of #FactsFirstPH which brings together various sectors that are committed to promoting truth in the public space, and exacting accountability on those who harm it with lies. For those interested to join the initiative, email info@factsfirst.ph.