‘Hang them!’ Philippines president Duterte threatens EU politicians over drugs war

More than 8,000 people have been killed since Mr Duterte took power in June last year and delivered on his election promise to launch a merciless campaign against crime and drugs.

The European Parliament issued a resolution condemning the “many extrajudicial killings” taking place in the Philippines and showing concern for the safety of Senator Leila de Lima, a fierce critic of the president.

But a furious Mr Duterte has warned the EU to stay out of his business. 

He said: “You madmen, you sons of b******. Stop interfering with us. I would be happy to hang you. If it were up to me I would hang you all.”

Salvador Panelo, Philippines chief presidential legal counsel, echoed his boss. 

He said: “They should mind their own business. They cannot dictate on the Philippine government on what to do with its constituent facing criminal charges.

”Nor can they can interfere with the judicial processes of our country.”

Philippines police have taken responsibility for more than 2,500 deaths during their anti-drugs operations, but reject allegations by local and international human rights groups that police are involved in thousands of mysterious murders of drug users.

The EU parliament’s resolution said it supported fighting drugs, but from the source, not the consumer.

It called on Manila to “prioritise” the fight against trafficking networks and drug barons over tracking down small-scale consumers.

Mr Duterte’s ally and Senate President Aquilino Pimentel said the EU parliament was trying to “micro manage” the Philippines’ internal affairs.