Rodrigo Duterte, former president of the Philippines, was arrested and taken into custody by the International Criminal Court (ICC) on Wednesday, March 12. He faces charges of murder related to his controversial "war on drugs," which allegedly led to the deaths of thousands of suspected drug users and dealers. Duterte, 79, was apprehended in Manila and transported to Rotterdam, where he arrived on a chartered flight. He will appear before an ICC judge in The Hague soon.

Duterte is accused of overseeing death squads during his presidency (2016–2022) that targeted drug offenders, creating and funding the groups responsible for these killings. In a video taken during his arrest, Duterte questioned the basis of his detention, implying that the charge of "murders" against him was likely accurate.

While some anti-Duterte protesters gathered outside the ICC in The Hague, calling for justice and accountability, there were also supporters of the former president. Anti-Duterte demonstrators expressed their belief that his arrest was a victory for justice, while some pro-Duterte protesters viewed it as an embarrassment, accusing foreign authorities of undermining their country. For the families of victims from Duterte's brutal drug war, this arrest has renewed hopes for justice. Official statistics from the police list 6,200 deaths from anti-drug operations, though activists claim the actual number is much higher, with many additional victims killed outside official operations.

This arrest marks a significant moment for the ICC, as it demonstrates the court's ability to hold high-profile figures accountable for their actions. Legal experts are watching closely, as this could set a precedent for future cases involving major international figures, such as Russian President Vladimir Putin or Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who are also facing charges from the ICC.

Duterte's daughter, Vice President Sara Duterte, has traveled to Amsterdam, though it's unclear what her specific plans are regarding the case. Legal teams are also preparing to assess their options, and Duterte's youngest daughter, Veronica, plans to file a habeas corpus petition in the Philippine Supreme Court to bring him back home. The arrest represents a turning point for the Duterte family, as their influence in Philippine politics has waned since Duterte's departure from office.

Disclaimer: This image is taken from Reuters file.