Authorities arrested Datu Adlaw and Reyna Lourdes on Thursday morning in Barangay Sabang, Surigao City, after serving them with an arrest warrant.
The Surigao City Police Station also took several members of the Federal Tribal Government of the Philippines into custody. The group is led by Jorgeto Santisas and Lourdes Infante, who use the titles Datu Adlaw and Reyna Lourdes.
They are facing charges of Usurpation of Authority, a crime involving falsely assuming an official position. Each of the accused was granted bail of ₱30,000, but authorities said they might face additional charges as the investigation continues.
The group previously went viral for roaming around Surigao City and sealing business establishments, claiming these violated the laws they uphold. Their activities sparked controversy, with many questioning their legitimacy.
Aside from their online notoriety, the group has also had verbal exchanges with the police when officers intervened in their activities. Officials said the arrests were part of ongoing efforts to maintain public order and prevent further unauthorized actions.
