Retired police colonel Royina Garma has been detained by U.S. Border Control officials in California, confirmed Jesus Crispin Remulla, the Secretary of Justice in the Philippines. Garma, who previously linked former President Rodrigo Duterte to an investigation concerning his war on drugs, was reportedly held due to a cancellation of her visa. This development surfaced on Tuesday as Remulla provided details about the incident.
Garma, who has been a prominent figure due to her role in legal and law enforcement matters, arrived in California, where she encountered issues with her visa. The U.S. authorities held her upon arrival, prompting discussions about her status and the reasons behind her visa cancellation. Information regarding the specific nature of her visa issues remains unclear. However, Remulla’s statements confirmed the situation, pointing to the visa cancellation as the primary reason for her detainment.
The visa cancellation comes at a time when Garma’s involvement in the high-profile investigation into former President Duterte’s campaign against illegal drugs has attracted significant attention. Garma, a former police colonel, has been vocal about the alleged human rights abuses linked to Duterte’s policies. Her statements have contributed to ongoing debates and legal examinations both in the Philippines and internationally.
Duterte’s administration faced extensive criticism for its aggressive stance on drug-related crimes. Reports claim thousands of individuals lost their lives during police operations. Human rights organizations, both domestic and international, have called for accountability and transparency in the processes employed during these operations. Garma’s testimony and involvement in the inquiry have been pivotal.
The former president, meanwhile, has consistently defended his approach, arguing that the measures were necessary to combat the pervasive drug problem in the country. He has denied allegations of human rights abuses and maintains that his policies were in the interest of national security and public safety.
The detainment of Garma in the United States raises questions about international responses to individuals involved in such investigations. It highlights the complexities surrounding visa policies and the potential implications for those connected to contentious political and legal matters.
U.S. Border Control’s decision to detain Garma underscores the importance of accurate visa documentation and compliance with U.S. immigration laws. While the specific reasons for the cancellation of Garma’s visa are not disclosed, the incident serves as a reminder of the strict regulations governing international travel and entry into the United States.