MANILA—The Department of Justice (DOJ) has announced that it has not yet received a formal extradition request from the United States for Pastor Apollo Quiboloy, leader of the Kingdom of Jesus Christ (KOJC).
According to Philippines News Agency, any discussions regarding Quiboloy's extradition hinge on such a request, highlighting the existence of an extradition treaty between the Philippines and the United States.
Quiboloy faces allegations of rape, cyberlibel, and involvement in sex trafficking, with cases still pending before the DOJ. The department is coordinating with the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) regarding the potential extradition, emphasizing that diplomatic channels typically facilitate such requests. This statement comes amid legislative inquiries into alleged abuses within Quiboloy's religious group and investigations into the operations of Swara Sug Media Corporation, associated with Quiboloy's Sonshine Media Network International (SMNI).
Quiboloy's legal troubles extend internationally, with a federal grand jury in Santa Ana, California, indicting him on multiple charges related to sex trafficking and bulk cash smuggling. A federal warrant for his arrest was issued on November 10, 2021, marking a significant step in the legal proceedings against the religious leader.