Former Congressman and Designated Terrorist Arnolfo Teves Jr. Arrested in Timor Leste
In a major breakthrough, the Department of Justice (DOJ) has confirmed the arrest of former Negros Oriental congressman and designated terrorist, Arnolfo “Arnie” Teves Jr. The arrest took place today at around 4:00 pm in Dili, East Timor, at the Top Golf Driving Range and Bar where Teves was found playing golf.
Teves, Jr. is currently facing multiple murder charges linked to the killing of Negros Oriental Gov Roel Degamo and five other individuals in March 2023. This significant arrest was made possible through the combined efforts of various law enforcement agencies, including the International Police (INTERPOL) National Central Bureau (NCB) in Dili, in collaboration with the East Timorese Police.
Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin “Boying” Remulla hailed this operation as a testament to the strength of international cooperation in the fight against terrorism. He emphasized that this arrest sends a clear message that no terrorist can evade justice and that nations are united in their commitment to safeguard the safety and security of their citizens.
Teves, who has been the subject of a Red Notice, is currently under the custody of Timorese Police. His extradition to the Philippines is being coordinated by NCB-Dili, in partnership with the team from NCB-Manila and the Dili Philippine Embassy.
In his statement, Secretary Remulla urged Teves to face his long-delayed trial without setting any conditions and to face the courts squarely. He also assured that the DOJ remains committed to providing regular updates on Teves' return to the Philippines and thanked the Philippine law enforcement team and international partners for their relentless efforts in fighting lawlessness to achieve peace.