By Beatrice Puente
(March 22, 2024) – Hole in one.
Former Negros Oriental representative Arnolfo Teves Jr. was arrested by foreign authorities while playing golf in Timor-Leste yesterday, the Department of Justice (DOJ) confirmed.
The DOJ said the arrest was made around 4 p.m. at the Top Golf Driving Range and Bar. It added that it came as a result of the collaboration among the International Police (Interpol), the National Central Bureau (NCB) in Dili, and the East Timorese Police.
“(The) 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,” said DOJ secretary Boying Remulla in a media release.
Teves, who was expelled from the House of Representatives last August, was tagged as the mastermind in the killing of former Negros Oriental governor Roel Degamo in March of last year. Teves is facing multiple murder charges.
Last month, the Interpol formally issued a “Red Notice” against Teves, alerting foreign authorities regarding his arrest. Since last year, there have already been reports that Teves was in Timor-Leste but it was only upon the issuance of the Interpol notice that his arrest became more likely.
Teves, who refused to return to the Philippines due to security concerns, tried to seek political asylum in Timor-Leste but his request was denied.
As of writing, the DOJ said Teves is under the custody of the East Timorese Police, noting that his extradition to the Philippines is already underway.
“Face your long-delayed trial without setting any conditions, face the courts squarely,” urged Remulla. “Rest assured that the DOJ remains committed to providing regular updates on Teves’ return to the Philippines.”
Pamplona Mayor Janice Degamo, the widow of the slain former governor, was elated by the arrest of Teves.
“Talagang may Diyos na nakakakita sa lahat ng ginagawa ng tao,” said Degamo in a phone interview. “Parang (may) relief talaga, lalong lalo na if he will be behind bars. We would like to see him behind bars.”
Upon seeing photos of Teves’ arrest, Degamo said they immediately sent them to the DOJ to ask for confirmation if the former lawmaker had indeed been arrested.
She expressed hope for a swift extradition process so Teves can finally face his charges. She added that they are working toward ensuring that the other cases against him will similarly be filed.
Degamo added that it “breaks her heart” to see the family of Teves act as if nothing happened.
“Marami pa kaming tatrabahuhin pero malaking development ito—for him to come home, be behind bars, and face the charges against him. That is something already for us,” said Degamo.
(PM)
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