China the lair of major drug lords, says Philippines’ Duterte
The president did not name the alleged drug lords and has previously asserted that most of the illegal drugs in the country originated from China
China is harbouring major drug lords who smuggle narcotics into the Philippines, the president said on Thursday as he pressed on with his ruthless war on crime.
Rodrigo Duterte made the remarks even as the two countries continue to bicker over an international tribunal invalidating Beijing’s extensive claims to the South China Sea.
“Where is the big fish [in illegal drugs]? If you want them, go to China. Look for them there,” Duterte told soldiers and police during a visit to a military camp.
“I wanted to talk to the ambassador. That is how serious it is. Now, how do I fight this? We cannot just go there and just declare war,” he added.
He did not identify the alleged drug lords and a Chinese embassy spokesman could not be contacted for comment.