Rodrigo Duterte Arrives in Netherlands to Face ICC Charges

Rodrigo Duterte has landed in the Netherlands to face ICC charges for crimes against humanity related to his drug war, which led to thousands of deaths in the Philippines. The ICC launched an investigation into his actions during his presidency and earlier as Davao’s mayor, with estimates of casualties as high as 30,000.

Rodrigo Duterte, the former president of the Philippines, has arrived in the Netherlands to address charges stemming from the brutal drug crackdown he led while in office. His flight landed at Rotterdam airport shortly before 4 PM UK time on March 12, 2025. At the age of 79, Mr. Duterte was detained under a warrant issued by the International Criminal Court (ICC), located in The Hague, on allegations of crimes against humanity.

The warrant for Mr. Duterte’s arrest was executed by Philippine authorities led by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., following his return from a visit to Hong Kong. The ICC had launched an investigation into mass killings connected to his extensive “war on drugs,” which first started during his tenure as mayor of Davao before escalating during his presidency from 2016 to 2022. Human rights advocates report that the death toll may be as high as 30,000, while official police statistics indicate over 6,000 fatalities.

The ICC’s warrant asserts there are “reasonable grounds to believe that [Mr] Duterte is individually responsible for the crime against humanity of murder.” The case is poised to capture international attention as it unfolds, given the gravity of the allegations and the international legal ramifications it may entail.

In summary, former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte has arrived in the Netherlands to face serious accusations of crimes against humanity connected to his controversial drug enforcement policies that resulted in thousands of deaths. The case, initiated by the ICC, highlights ongoing concerns regarding human rights abuses and the accountability of leaders for their actions during their time in office.

Original Source: news.sky.com