Duterte arrested in Philippines over ICC drug killings warrant

Former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte was arrested on March 11, 2025, at Manila airport on a warrant from the International Criminal Court (ICC). He faces accusations of crimes against humanity related to his anti-drug policies while in office. Duterte's arrest marks a significant development, as he is the first former Asian leader to be detained by the ICC. His lawyers have sought to block his transfer to the ICC, arguing that his constitutional rights were violated during the arrest. The ICC has been investigating mass killings linked to Duterte's drug crackdown, with death toll estimates ranging from over 6,000 to 30,000. The court's warrant stated that Duterte's arrest was necessary to ensure his appearance before the court and to prevent interference with ongoing investigations.