Former Lawmaker Arnolfo Teves Arrested in Timor-Leste

Former Congressman Arnolfo Teves Jr. arrested in Timor-Leste amid serious murder charges. His son claimed in a video that Teves was kidnapped. Teves has denied the allegations, calling them politically motivated. The DOJ has yet to comment.

In a significant development, former Negros Oriental Third District Representative Arnolfo Teves Jr. was apprehended in Timor-Leste last night. His arrest took place at his residence in Dili, and was confirmed by his son, Axl Teves, through social media. Reports indicate that Axl posted a brief video online stating, “I am making this video to inform everyone that my father, Arnie Teves, has been kidnapped and abused.”

Teves is facing serious charges connected to the 2023 murder of Negros Oriental Governor Roel Degamo and several others, an incident infamously referred to as the Pamplona Massacre. Despite the severity of these allegations, the former lawmaker has consistently denied any wrongdoing. He further refused to return to the Philippines, claiming that he is the target of politically motivated persecution.

In the troubling video shared by his son, viewers can see immigration officers forcibly taking Teves from his home, highlighting the dramatic nature of the arrest. The incident has already sparked discussions on social media, especially given his contentious legal situation back home. As of now, the Department of Justice (DOJ) in the Philippines has not made any official comments regarding his arrest.

The arrest of Arnolfo Teves Jr. in Timor-Leste has added another layer to the ongoing legal saga surrounding him, particularly his connections to serious criminal charges in the Philippines. While he maintains his innocence and a stance of political persecution, his son’s distressing portrayal of the event raises further questions. The absence of an immediate response from the DOJ reflects the complexity and sensitivity of the situation.

Original Source: globalnation.inquirer.net