Former Philippines Leader Duterte's Unexpected Journey to The Hague

Former Philippines President Rodrigo Duterte was arrested and flown to The Hague for an ICC investigation into his anti-drug campaign. The arrest, called proper by current President Marcos, followed years of disputes with the ICC over alleged crimes against humanity during Duterte's tenure.

In a surprising turn of events, former Philippines President Rodrigo Duterte has been arrested and flown to The Hague. His arrest marks a significant moment in the International Criminal Court's (ICC) probe into his controversial anti-drug campaign that defined his presidency from 2016 to 2022.

Current President Ferdinand Marcos Jr confirmed Duterte's departure, emphasizing that the arrest adhered to appropriate legal procedures and was not facilitated by the Philippine government. The arrest aligns with international law enforcement and could lead to an unprecedented trial for Duterte at the ICC.

Despite stomaching international criticism and withdrawing the Philippines from the ICC treaty in 2019, Duterte's tenure was marred by substantial allegations of human rights violations. His administration's anti-drug operations are estimated to have resulted in thousands of fatalities, actions that rights groups argue require accountability.

(With inputs from agencies.)