ICC Arrest Warrant Issued for Duterte Over Deadly Drug War Tactics

The International Criminal Court has issued a 15-page arrest warrant for former Philippines President Rodrigo Duterte, accusing him of crimes against humanity related to his war on drugs. Evidence suggests Duterte led the Davao Death Squad, targeting alleged criminals and orchestrating widespread killings while in office.

The International Criminal Court (ICC) has issued an arrest warrant against former Philippines President Rodrigo Duterte, according to a document seen by Reuters. The warrant alleges Duterte committed murder as a crime against humanity in connection with his infamous war on drugs.

Issued on March 7, the warrant claims Duterte led the Davao Death Squad and oversaw a campaign targeting alleged drug offenders during his presidency. The ICC argues that his actions amounted to a widespread and systematic attack on civilians, resulting in thousands of deaths over several years.

The former president is accused of orchestrating the targeting of alleged criminals, providing the death squad with weapons and ammunitions, and incentivizing police and hitmen with rewards. Despite the Philippines' withdrawal from the ICC in 2019, the court maintains jurisdiction as the alleged crimes occurred while the country was a member.

(With inputs from agencies.)