Atty. Israelito Torreon, legal counsel for the Kingdom of Jesus Christ (KOJC), has accused the government of imposing a de facto martial law after police dismantled a barricade set up by KOJC members outside their compound.

"I am afraid to say that we have now a de facto martial law," Torreon said.

Torreon said the KOJC’s prayer vigil rally was legal as it was permitted by the local government and was conducted under a ‘state of necessity’ as outlined in the Civil Code.

Torreon claimed that the police violated the human rights of KOJC members by not respecting their rights.

“Apparently, it is now illegal to express your opinion and grievances to the government," he said.

Following the dispersal, 18 KOJC members were arrested and are facing charges of obstruction of justice. 

Torreon also noted that the arrest warrant did not authorize the police to search the KOJC property. 

In response, the Philippine National Police (PNP) maintains that its actions are lawful. It stands by information that KOJC leader, Pastor Apollo Quiboloy, and four other members of the group, are just hiding inside the KOJC compound.

The KOJC plans to file counter charges against the police.