Rodrigo Duterte, the controversial former President of the Philippines, has been arrested on an International Criminal Court (ICC) warrant following an investigation into his administration's deadly drug war, which resulted in widespread human rights violations.
Rodrigo Duterte Arrested in Manila on International Criminal Court Warrant
Rodrigo Duterte Arrested in Manila on International Criminal Court Warrant
Former Philippine President detained over allegations of crimes against humanity related to drug war
On Tuesday, Rodrigo Duterte, former President of the Philippines, was apprehended at Manila's airport after returning from a trip to Hong Kong. His arrest comes in light of a warrant issued by the International Criminal Court (ICC) that accuses him of crimes against humanity during his notorious war on drugs, a program that human rights organizations claim led to the extrajudicial killings of tens of thousands of Filipinos.
Despite leaving office in 2022, the 79-year-old Duterte remains a potent figure in Philippine politics, having retained significant influence over the political landscape, while previously evading legal repercussions for multiple allegations against him. To date, only a scant number of individuals have been convicted in connection with the killings.
As the story unfolds, many are watching keenly to see the developments that accompany this high-profile case, signifying a crucial moment in both Philippine and international law.
This report was contributed by Marlise Simons from Paris and authored by Sui-Lee Wee, the Southeast Asia bureau chief for The Times, who oversees coverage across 11 countries in the region.
