MANILA — The Department of Justice (DOJ) has announced that Timor-Leste has rejected the appeal of former Congressman Arnolfo Teves Jr. regarding his extradition.
“We wish to inform the public that this motion has been denied,” the DOJ stated. “We recognize the importance of this decision and are committed to maintaining transparency throughout this process.”
Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla welcomed the decision, calling it “a significant step forward” in the pursuit of justice.
“This decision underscores that justice proceeds irrespective of an individual’s status,” Remulla stated.
Teves had sought to overturn the decision of the Timor-Leste Court of Appeals on his extradition and had even reached out to the United Nations Commission on Human Rights for support in his case.
The former lawmaker faces several charges, including multiple counts of murder, frustrated murder, and attempted murder, in connection with the killing of former Negros Oriental governor Roel Degamo and nine others.
Teves was arrested in Dili, Timor-Leste, in March while playing golf, following an Interpol red notice issued in February.