Arnie Teves Turned Over to Philippine Authorities
Negros Oriental 3rd district congresswoman-elect Janice Degamo expressed overwhelming relief and hope on social media following the news that her predecessor, expelled congressman Arnolfo “Arnie” Teves Jr., has been handed over to Philippine authorities. This marks a significant development after years of Teves evading justice abroad.
“God is good all the time! Justice will prevail!” Degamo wrote on Facebook just after midnight on Friday, May 30. She added, “For the first time in more than 2 years Arnie Teves is back in the Philippines in the custody of the NBI,” referring to the National Bureau of Investigation.
Background on the Case and Teves’ Capture
Arnie Teves is accused of orchestrating the daylight assassination of Negros Oriental Governor Roel Degamo, who was also Janice Degamo’s husband. The tragic attack happened on March 4, 2023, in the town of Pamplona, where Governor Degamo and nine others were killed by a group of heavily armed assailants.
After years of hiding overseas, Teves was finally captured by local authorities in Timor-Leste. Reports indicate that he was handed over to Philippine officials on Thursday, May 29, and deported shortly after. The flight carrying Teves departed Timor-Leste that same afternoon.
Congresswoman-Elect Janice Degamo’s Commitment to Justice
In her Facebook post, Janice Degamo vowed to continue seeking justice for all victims affected by what she called the “Teves Terrorist Group.” She said, “I will never stop fighting until all those who suffered at the hands of the Teves Terrorist Group receive the justice they deserve.”
Degamo ran in the recent midterm elections held on May 12 as a candidate from the influential Lakas-Christian Muslim Democrats (Lakas-CMD) party, which helped secure her victory.
Looking Ahead
With Arnie Teves now in custody, many expect that legal proceedings will move forward swiftly. Community leaders and local experts have expressed hope that this will bring closure to the families and communities affected by the violence.
This development also highlights the importance of international cooperation in tracking down fugitives who evade justice by fleeing abroad.
For more news and updates on Arnie Teves turned over, visit Filipinokami.com.