The Philippine National Police (PNP) has announced its readiness to arrest Senator Ronald 'Bato' dela Rosa at any time in connection with the implementation of an arrest warrant from the International Criminal Court (ICC), but stressed that it must go through the proper process via Interpol and a court order.
PNP Spokesperson Clarifies Process
According to PNP spokesperson PBGen Randulf Tuaño, Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla gave clear directives to the PNP leadership to implement the contingency plan only when there is a confirmed ICC warrant. Tuaño explained that the warrant must first be routed through Interpol and a corresponding order from a local court must be obtained before enforcement.
Background of the ICC Warrant
It will be recalled that the ICC confirmed on Monday that it had issued an arrest warrant against Dela Rosa in connection with the killings under the 'war on drugs' campaign during the administration of former President Rodrigo Duterte.
Trillanes Confirms Warrant Delivery
Meanwhile, former senator Antonio Trillanes IV said that a copy of the ICC arrest warrant has already been sent to the Presidential Center for Transnational Crime (PCTC).
Senator's Current Status
At present, Dela Rosa is under the protective custody of the Senate. Additionally, the senator's camp has filed a manifestation with the Supreme Court seeking immediate judicial protection against possible arrest and transfer to the ICC.
