PNP starts security preparations for possible return of Teves
The Philippine National Police (PNP) is now preparing for the possible deportation of former Negros Oriental representative Arnolfo Teves who is currently detained in Timor Leste.
PNP spokesperson Col. Jean Fajardo said the preparation is just a contingency measure in case the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) would seek police assistance to secure Teves if he would be returned to the country.
“The is just in the context of security preparation of the PNP in case the NBI will request for any police assistance,” said Fajardo, adding that it is the NBI which is taking the lead in seeking the return of Teves back to the Philippines.
Teves was among those tagged in the killing of Negros Oriental governor Roel Degamo last year, an allegation that the former congressman repeatedly denied.
Fajardo explained that the security preparation is just a normal process in anticipation of any development in the efforts to have Teves flown back to the Philippines.
She said the security preparation is inevitable since the case filed against Teves is considered as high profile.
“If there is indeed truth to the rumors that he would be returning to the Philippines, the NBI is the primary agency to coordinate with the East Timor government but on the part of the PNP, we are ready to provide any police assistance if requested by the NBI,” said Fajardo.
Part of the preparation, according to Fajardo, is on the possible detention of Teves at the PNP Custodial Center at Camp Crame in Quezon City.