Authorities carried out raids on houses located in various areas of Negros Oriental on March 10, which reportedly belong to Negros Oriental 3rd District Representative Arnolfo “Arni” Teves.
Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Benhur Abalos confirmed over Manila radio station DZRH that the raids were conducted for the illegal possession of firearms in the properties owned by Rep. Teves.
The series of raids come after the congressman was alleged to be the mastermind behind the killing of Negros Oriental governor Roel Degamo. At least 5 houses were raided but not all houses belongs to the congressman.
The raids were conducted by elements from the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group of the Philippine National Police. Photos circulating online showed members of CIDG in blue uniform conducting thorough search one of the targeted houses that was subject of a search. Accompanying police officers were also seen wearing full battle gear during the operation.
As of this writing, it is not yet clear if any firearms or other illegal items were seized during the raids.
Representative Teves who is currently in the United States of America has yet to issue a statement regarding the raids.
This is a developing story, and further updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
