Arrest of former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte

Former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte was arrested at Manila International Airport after arriving from Hong Kong. The arrest was carried out on the basis of an International Criminal Court (ICC) warrant issued on charges of crimes against humanity related to his anti-drug campaign.

Charges of crimes against humanity

Between 2016 and 2019, during Duterte's presidency, the Philippines conducted a harsh anti-drug campaign known as the "war on drugs". According to official data, at least 6,000 people died as a result of this campaign. However, human rights organisations claim that the actual number of victims could reach tens of thousands, many of whom were victims of extrajudicial killings carried out by both law enforcement agencies and so-called "death squads".

Reaction and Duterte's condition after arrest

Duterte's arrest caused chaos at Manila Airport. His lawyers and aides protested that they were not allowed to contact him after his detention. Philippine authorities stated that the 79-year-old former president is in good health and is undergoing a medical examination.

Duterte's previous actions and the ICC's position

In 2019, Duterte withdrew the Philippines from the ICC's jurisdiction, which, according to human rights advocates, was an attempt to avoid accountability. Despite this, in 2023, the court in The Hague ruled that the investigation into Duterte could continue.

Next steps and international reaction

The administration of incumbent President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. expressed its readiness to cooperate with international law enforcement agencies in the event of a corresponding request.