THE National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) yesterday filed murder complaints before the Department of Justice (DOJ) against Negros Oriental Rep. Arnolfo “Arnie” Teves Jr. over the killing of provincial governor Roel Degamo and several others.

At present, journalists covering the Justice beat are still waiting to obtain copies of the complaints.

However, Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla confirmed to reporters that NBI Director Medardo de Lemos, along with his team, has submitted the complaints to a panel of prosecutors.

“It’s ongoing. The NBI is already here. I was informed by Director De Lemos that they are coming over to file the complaint. I believe the panel of prosecutors has been convened to receive the complaints,” Remulla said during a chance interview.

When asked about the charges against Teves, Remulla mentioned “murder, multiple frustrated murder, multiple murder, and multiple attempted murder.”

In the meantime, Remulla shared information he received from sources, stating that Teves already possessed a plane ticket for his return to the Philippines.

“We were informed that he already has a ticket. We have sources that keep us informed about his movements. We wouldn’t release this information without reasonable grounds to believe that something may happen or is likely to happen. We rely on our sources to provide us with accurate facts,” Remulla commented.

FAKE NEWS

The Negros solon denied reports of his imminent return to the country, dismissing them as “fake news.”

In an interview with state-run Radyo Pilipinas, Teves said: “The news of my return is fake. They should have asked me first before making such claims.”

Remulla, when asked for comment said Teves’ continued refusal to come back indicates his guilt.

“If he’s not coming back, why? He already has a ticket. It means he’s evading the charges. His flight is an indication of guilt

Remulla, a former legislator who joined President Marcos’ Cabinet, emphasized the necessity for Teves to respond and submit his counter-affidavit.

Failure to do so could result in the prosecutors filing of the cases in court, potentially leading to an in absentia warrant.

Teves recently had his application for political asylum rejected by the Ministry of Interior of Timor-Leste.

He has consistently denied any involvement in the killing of Degamo and has pledged to return to the Philippines “once the threat to his life is properly addressed.”

During a hastily-called press briefing on Tuesday evening, Remulla disclosed that Teves would be flying back to the country on May 17, citing a reliable source familiar with flight operations.

“My trustworthy source who has access to flight data, has provided me with this information. This person has a proven track record of accurately tracking arrivals and departures,” Remulla revealed.

Remulla underscored the challenges Teves would face in evading capture, considering the Interpol Notice against him and his growing reputation as a potential subject for terrorist designation among ASEAN countries.