DND to block attempts of Quiboloy transfer to AFP custody

The Department of National Defense (DND) will move heaven and earth to reject any attempt of the camp of embattled Kingdom of Jesus Christ (KOJC) leader Pastor Apollo Quiboloy to be transferred to the detention facilities of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP).
“The Department of National Defense will oppose any motion to have Pastor Quiboloy transferred to AFP custody,” DND spokesperson Director Arsenio Andolong said in a statement Monday night, Sept. 9.
Quiboloy’s legal counsel, lawyer Israelito Torreon, reportedly expressed interest to have the KOJC leader transferred from the Custodial Center of the Philippine National Police (PNP) to any AFP facility, citing “security concerns”.
But Andolong stressed that AFP facilities are “subject to strict operational security protocols”, thus, the AFP “is not the proper agency to have custody of suspects in criminal cases.”
The AFP earlier confirmed providing support to the PNP in its operations at the KOJC compound in Buhangin District, Davao City on Sunday which led to the arrest of Quiboloy and four of his co-accused namely Crisente Canada, Ingrid Canada, Sylvia Cemañes and Jackielyn Roy.
All are facing a case for violation of Anti-Trafficking in Person Act of 2023, while Quiboloy is facing a separate case for violation of Republic Act 7610 or Special Protection of Children Against Abuse, Exploitation and Discrimination Act.
Quiboloy’s camp, however, insisted that the pastor surrendered to the Intelligence Service of the AFP (ISAFP).