Photo courtesy from Atty. Israelito Torreon

Kingdom of Jesus Christ legal counsel Atty. Israelito Torreon has expressed his frustration and concern over the ongoing search at the Jose Maria College compound. The lawyer shared a photo of a deep excavation in the basement, emphasizing the length and intensity of the operation.

Torreon, who represents Pastor Apollo Quiboloy, questioned the police's tactics, particularly their decision to dig an extensive tunnel in search of the pastor. "I thought the police were so sure of Pastor ACQ's location that they even dug a tunnel in the JMC Basement," he wrote. He then highlighted how the search, which has now dragged on for 11 days, has yet to yield any results.

Despite the police's justification under Rule 113, Section 11, Torreon pointed out that the continued search raises serious legal questions. "What baffles me is that after 11 days, still no result? The hole in the JMC Basement has become dangerously big, threatening the stability of the buildings, yet they have not seen any tunnel yet?" he questioned.

Torreon further argued that the search seemed unreasonable and speculative, challenging the very basis of the police's actions. "If they were so sure of the tunnel, why can’t they locate its entrance?" he asked.

He also raised concerns about the legality of the ongoing operation, pointing out that no valid search warrant had been issued, and the search has extended far beyond what is permitted during an arrest. Citing a Supreme Court ruling, Torreon reminded authorities that "there must be a lawful arrest before a search can be made; the process cannot be reversed!"

In his final plea, Torreon called on Philippine National Police chief Police General Francisco Marbil to allow them access to the JMC Basement to verify the situation. "Please stop this madness!" he urged, as the search continues with no end in sight.