Philippines DOJ to ask Timor-Leste for extradition of expelled congressman Teves Jr

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MANILA, Philippines, Nov 13, (Agencies): The Department of Justice (DOJ) is preparing to formally request Timor-Leste to extradite expelled Negros Oriental congressman Arnolfo A. Teves Jr. Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin C. Remulla conveyed this intention during a meeting with Timor-Leste President Jose Ramos-Horta on Saturday, Nov 11.

Remulla stated in a press briefing, “I just told him we will be filing the necessary information and necessary letters to his office to inform them formally of the charges pending against Mr Teves.” He emphasized the duty of member states under the United Nations agreement on terrorism to surrender the body of any terrorist for trial in the prosecuting country.

President Horta responded favorably, stating, “I will await that.” Remulla revealed that he was invited by Horta to visit Timor-Leste and discussed the possibility of signing three treaties between the Philippines and Timor-Leste.

During the meeting, Remulla proposed the mutual legal assistance treaty, extradition treaty, and the transfer of sentenced persons treaty. These agreements aim to facilitate cooperation between the two countries in legal matters, including extradition and the transfer of individuals for trial.

Teves, designated as a “terrorist” by the Anti-Terrorism Council on Aug 1, faces multiple charges, including involvement in the March 4 shooting in Pamplona, Negros Oriental, resulting in 10 deaths, including Gov Roel Degamo, and injuries to 18 others. Additionally, Teves is implicated in the 2019 murders of three individuals, with arrest warrants issued by the courts handling these cases.

The DOJ’s move to seek Teves’s extradition marks a significant step in the legal proceedings against the expelled legislator.

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