Former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte Arrested on ICC Warrant

Former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte Arrested on ICC Warrant

Philippines – Former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte has been arrested on a warrant issued by the International Criminal Court (ICC). Since 2018, the ICC has been investigating him for crimes against humanity related to his 'war on drugs' campaign.

On Tuesday, Duterte was arrested upon his arrival at Manila airport from Hong Kong, according to the Philippine government. The arrest warrant from the ICC was sent to the Philippines through Interpol. The government stated, “Upon his return to the country, the prosecutor general served him with the arrest warrant from the ICC. He is now in the custody of authorities.”

During Duterte’s presidency from 2016 to 2022, thousands of people died as part of his anti-drug operations, many of whom were children. Human rights organizations claim that the actual death toll could exceed 30,000, including individuals killed by police officers.

The former president questioned the legality of his arrest, stating in a video, “What is my crime, and what is this law? Why am I here? Was this done by my own will?” He further added, “Explain to me now, because I did not want to be here.”

Between 2016 and 2019, over 7,000 people were killed during Duterte’s anti-drug operations, but human rights groups claim that the actual number was much higher. Among those killed were several children who had no connection to drug activities.

This arrest warrant is seen as a significant victory for human rights organizations. Bryony Lau, the Deputy Director of Human Rights Watch’s Asia division, stated in a statement, “This arrest is an important step toward justice for the victims of human rights violations.”

Even after the Philippines withdrew its membership from the ICC in 2019, the investigation continued. Despite Duterte’s withdrawal, the international court proceeded with its investigation into his actions.

This arrest warrant sends a clear message to the international community that no one is above the law.