Protestors demand end to Philippines extra-judicial killings

Protestors on Friday demanded an end to the wave of extra-judicial killings that have taken place since President Rodrigo Duterte launched his controversial war on drugs.

More than 30 people took part in the demonstration on Friday morning in front of the Philippine National Police (PNP) headquarters in capital Manila, waving flags and banners bearing slogans such as "Stop extra-judicial killings, uphold due process", EFE news reported.

Participants also mimicked an extra-judicial killing scene, lying on the ground in front of the police headquarters with scarves over their heads, surrounded by cardboard signs displaying the words "Stop the killings".

According to police data, at least 756 people were slain during anti-drug police operations between July 1 and August 23, while some 1,160 people were killed by unidentified assailants, many of whom are believed to be vigilantes.

The latest death count means that since Duterte took office on June 30, his violent campaign against drugs has seen an average of 36 deaths each day.

The UN last week condemned the drug crackdown, urging the Philippine government to "protect all persons from targeted killings and extra-judicial executions".

In response, Duterte said the criticisms were "stupid" and threatened to withdraw the Philippines from the UN.

The Philippine government has since insisted that it remains committed to the UN, despite frustrations with the international body's comments over the extra-judicial killings.

--IANS

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