SOJ Remulla forms task force to probe killings in Duterte war on drugs

Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla has ordered the creation of a task force made up of prosecutors and National Bureau of Investigation agents to investigate extra-judicial killings in the war on drugs of former President Rodrigo Duterte, sources told GMA News Online.

According to Memorandum Order No. 778, a copy of which GMA News Online obtained, the task force will be under the Office of the Secretary and will "investigate, assist in the conduct of case build-up, and if warranted, file the appropriate criminal charges in court against the perpetrators and all those involved in extrajudicial killings during the previous administration's anti-illegal drugs campaign."

The task is also in line with the ongoing probe by the House of Representatives Quad Committee and the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee.

“A team composed of the appropriate number of officers, agents, and personnel from the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI), as may be required, shall likewise be constituted to assist the Task Force in its work,” the order stated.

Remulla directed the task force to closely coordinate with the House of Representatives Quad Committee, Senate Blue Ribbon Committee, Philippine National Police (PNP), Witness Protection Program (WPP), Commission on Human Rights (CHR), and relevant government agencies to ensure the efficient gathering and sharing of information, as well as the facilitation of operational support necessary, including to effectively secure and interview witnesses, for a comprehensive investigation and case build-up.”

It added that, “The Task Force is authorized to withdraw funds from their respective offices, subject to availability, in the conduct of its meetings and activities towards the fulfillment of the objectives of this Department Order.”

Remulla said the task force “shall submit its report to the Secretary of Justice no later than 60 days from the issuance of this Joint Department Order”. The order is dated on November 4, 2024.
—NB, GMA Integrated News