- Police still believe Quiboloy inside KOJC compound
THERE would be no let up in the search for Kingdom of Jesus Christ leader Pastor Apollo Quiboloy and four others as the operation enters the sixth day, Wednesday, Aug. 29.
This was the response of Police Brig. Gen. Roderick Augustus Alba, Police Regional Office XI community relations director and spokesperson of Special Task Force Group Teknon Alpha.
He said the deployment of forces, including barricades and security both inside and outside the compound, will persist as long as necessary.
“Our appeal is for the public to support the PNP in resolving this matter and bringing those responsible to justice. Remember, our subjects of the warrant of arrest are presumed innocent until proven guilty and have rights accorded to them,” he added.
Alba said they currently have 2,000 personnel deployed in the area. They work in shifts for 24 hours daily.
“This is not the only task of the PNP at the moment; we have many other concerns and challenges,” he said.
When asked if the number of force was excessive, Alba replied, “If that’s what is required, we have the flexibility to adjust or enhance our deployment.”
The police personnel deployed at the KOJC compound came from Northern Mindanao, Soccsksargen, and Caraga.
“We help each other and go above and beyond,” he added.
In a press briefing on Thursday morning at Camp Quintin Merecido in Buhangin, Alba clarified that the recent Supreme Court order validates their findings.
Alba explained, “It confirms the findings of our lawyers regarding the protection order. We removed the barriers out of respect, but the legal findings remain.”
Lt. Col. Jerick Filosofo, also task force spokesperson, added that the temporary temporary protection order (TPO) issued by the court does not prevent the PNP from executing the warrant of arrest against Pastor Quiboloy and the four others.
When asked if they would continue searching for Pastor Quiboloy, Alba said, “Definitely. Our focus remains on serving the warrant of arrest and adhering to legal procedures, as monitored by our ground commander, Brig. Gen. Nicolas Torre III.”
Regarding the status inside the KOJC, Alba said, “The execution of the warrant of arrest continues, and I emphasize that legal procedures are being followed. The ground commander prefers not to disclose operational details that could compromise the ongoing procedure.”
He also mentioned, “Reports indicate some areas are being delayed due to interference. Not all areas can be immediately accessed, and some media members are not allowed inside.”
“Since it’s a large area and we are inspecting each part, it’s not easy to locate what we’re searching for,” he added.
Regarding the deployment of soldiers, Alba stated the PNP is not coordinating with other government agencies on this matter, but believes other agencies may be involved in supporting the process.
“I cannot provide specific details, but there may be other agencies assisting in various capacities,” he said.
On Quiboloy’s location, Alba said they found indicators of his presence but are not relying solely on PNP resources. “Other agencies are aiding us, and our work continues. We cannot provide specific details about his location,” he added.
Attorney Dinah Tolentino, the legal counsel for the KOJC, questioned the reasonableness of the ongoing measures under Rule 113 in a press conference on Thursday afternoon.
Photo: Bing Gonzales
