Arnie Teves Arrested in Timor-Leste: What Happened in the Last 12 Hours
DILI, TIMOR-LESTE — In a dramatic turn of events, former Negros Oriental Representative Arnolfo “Arnie” Teves Jr. was arrested by Timor-Leste immigration authorities at his residence in Dili on the evening of May 27, 2025.
The arrest was confirmed by Teves’ son, Axl Teves, who described the incident as a “kidnapping,” claiming that no warrant or official documentation was presented during the operation. He further alleged that the former congressman was taken without due process, fueling concerns from his legal team.
The Philippine Department of Justice (DOJ) has acknowledged the arrest and confirmed that it is in active coordination with Timor-Leste officials. The DOJ stated its intent to pursue all legal avenues to facilitate Teves’ return to the Philippines, where he faces multiple murder charges linked to high-profile political killings.
The arrest follows months of legal battles over Teves’ extradition. In March 2025, the Timor-Leste Court of Appeal denied the Philippine government’s request to extradite him, citing concerns over his safety if returned. The Philippine government has since expressed disappointment and announced plans to appeal the ruling.
Teves’ legal counsel insists he is being politically persecuted and called for transparency and adherence to international legal standards.
As of this report, Teves remains in the custody of Timor-Leste authorities. Both governments are expected to clarify the next steps in the coming days as diplomatic and legal negotiations intensify.
