Timor-Leste Rearrests Key Suspect in Degamo Assassination

Timor-Leste Rearrests Arnie Teves Jr., Orders Deportation to Philippines; DOJ to Expedite Custody Transfer Former Philippine lawmaker Arnie Teves Jr. was recently rearrested in Timor-Leste and faces deportation back to the Philippines. This action follows his initial arrest in March 2024, after which he was released on appeal. Teves is a key suspect in the assassination of Negros Oriental Governor Roel Degamo, an incident that also claimed the lives of nine others. The Philippine Department of Justice (DOJ) has stated that they are aware of the situation and are taking steps to ensure Teves' swift transfer back to the Philippines for trial. In a statement, the DOJ spokesperson said, "We are working to arrange Teves' custody transfer by the most expeditious means." The widow of Governor Degamo, incoming congresswoman Janice Degamo, expressed relief at the rearrest, stating, "This is a significant step in our quest for justice." The event underscores the ongoing efforts to bring those responsible for the governor's assassination to justice and highlights the international cooperation involved in such investigations.