FORMER CONGRESSMAN TEVES ARRESTED IN TIMOR LESTE

EXPELLED Negros Oriental Rep. Arnolfo “Arnie” Teves Jr.  was arrested by the authorities in Timor Leste, the Department of Justice (DOJ) confirmed Thursday night.

Teves, who is facing multiple murder charges, is the alleged mastermind in the killing of Negros Oriental Gov. Degamo in March 2023.

The DOJ said Teves, who has been designated as a “terrorist” was caught at 4 p.m. Thursday while playing golf at the Top Golf Driving Range and Bar in Dili, Timor Leste.

The arrest of the former Negros solon was made possible through the collaborative efforts of law enforcement agencies, including the International Police (Interpol) and the National Central Bureau (NCB) in Dili, in coordination with the East Timorese police.

“Today’s (Thursday, March 21, 2024) apprehension of Teves is a testament to the power of international cooperation. It sends a clear message that no terrorist can evade justice and that nations stand united in safeguarding the safety and security of their citizens,” Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin “Boying” Remulla said in a statement. 

“The capture of Teves only proves that through concerted efforts and determination, terrorism can be thwarted and peace preserved,” Remulla said. 

“Face your long-delayed trial without setting any conditions, face the courts squarely,” Remulla urged Teves.  

Teves was placed on the red notice of the International Criminal Police Organization (Interpol) in February.

A red notice is a request for law enforcement worldwide to locate and arrest a person pending his extradition, surrender, or similar legal action.

The former Negros congressman is now under the custody of the Timorese police.

The DOJ said the Interpol’s National Central Bureau in Dili is coordinating with a team from the NCB in Manila and the Philippine Embassy in Dili on Teves’ extradition to the Philippines.

Teves  was expelled by the House of Representatives in August for disorderly conduct and continued absence despite an expired travel authority.