Published :
Updated :
For all latest news, follow The Financial Express Google News channel.
Philippine police have killed 32 alleged drug offenders in a series of anti-drug operations near the capital Manila this week, police said Wednesday.
The updated report shows that anti-drug operations in the Northern Province left 32 drug suspects dead, 11 more than earlier reported.
Senior Superintendent Romeo M Caramat Jr said 67 police operations in various parts of Bulacan province Tuesday left 32 suspects killed in encounters with police, while 109 others were arrested.
Confiscated during the operations were more than 200 grams of methamphetamine, 786 grams of marijuana, assorted firearms, grenades and ammunition.
Police records show since the nationwide crackdown started, more than 3,200 alleged drug offenders have been killed in gunbattles with law enforcers.
More than 2,000 others died in drug-related homicides, including attacks by motorcycle-riding masked gunmen and other assaults.
Human rights groups report a higher toll and demand an independent investigation into Duterte's possible role in the violence, according to AP.