ICC issues arrest warrant for Duterte in Philippines
The International Criminal Court (ICC) has issued an arrest warrant for former Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte, citing "reasonable grounds" for crimes against humanity linked to his administration's war on drugs. The warrant was issued on March 7 and certified on March 10. The ICC believes Duterte is responsible for murder as an indirect co-perpetrator and that he led the "Davao Death Squad," which targeted suspected criminals. The warrant states that thousands were killed in a systematic attack over several years. Duterte was arrested upon returning to the Philippines from Hong Kong and is currently in police custody. The ICC noted concerns about his potential interference with investigations and the safety of witnesses.