Ex-Rep. Arnolfo Teves Nabbed Again in Timor-Leste, Son Decries Abuse
ARNOLFO TEVES – Former congressman Arnolfo Teves was rearrested in Timor-Leste, prompting his son to claim that the operation was a case of kidnapping.
Former Negros Oriental Third District Representative Arnolfo “Arnie” Teves Jr. was arrested Tuesday night at his residence in Dili, Timor-Leste. The arrest was confirmed by his son, Axl Teves, through a social media post that claimed his father had been “kidnapped and abused.”
“I am making this video to inform everyone that my father, Arnie Teves, has been kidnapped and abused,” Axl said in a video posted on Facebook. He also shared a 10-second clip showing immigration officers forcibly taking the former lawmaker from his home.
Teves has been a controversial figure since being charged in connection with the 2023 assassination of Negros Oriental Governor Roel Degamo and nine others, a case that came to be known as the Pamplona Massacre. The killings shocked the nation and drew widespread condemnation.
The former congressman, who was expelled from the House of Representatives in 2023 due to “disorderly behavior,” has consistently denied any involvement in the killings. He has remained outside the country and refused to return to the Philippines, claiming that he is a victim of political persecution.
Teves’ refusal to come back to face the charges has fueled legal and diplomatic efforts by the Philippine government to have him extradited. Despite multiple warrants issued against him, Teves has stayed in Timor-Leste, where he reportedly sought asylum, though this request was previously denied.
As of this writing, the Department of Justice (DOJ) has not released an official statement regarding his arrest. It remains unclear whether the arrest marks the beginning of extradition proceedings or if additional charges are being pursued in Timor-Leste.
The case continues to draw significant public interest as it involves high-profile political figures and a series of violent events that have deeply affected the province of Negros Oriental. Updates are expected as more information becomes available from Philippine authorities and international channels.
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