THE Department of Justice (DoJ) on Wednesday created a new task force to investigate extra judicial killings (EJKs) under the administration of former President Rodrigo R. Duterte.
Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin C. Remulla in a statement said Department Order (DO) 778 is tasked to build cases against suspected perpetrators of the deadly drug war of Mr. Duterte.
“Spare no one, hold accountable every personality who had a hand in the senseless killing perpetrated by abusive persons in authority during the past admin’s anti-illegal drug campaign,” he added.
The Task Force is required to submit a report not later than 60 days from the issuance of DO 778.
The government estimates that at least 6,117 people died in Mr. Duterte’s drug war between July 1, 2016 and May 31, 2022, but human rights groups say the death toll could be as high as 30,000.
The tough-talking former President admitted having ordered police officers in his hometown of Davao City when he was its mayor to goad criminals to fight back during anti-illegal drug raids so cops will have a reason to retaliate, adding that he had a hit-squad tasked to eradicate crimes. — Chloe Marie A. Hufana
