South Korean Anti-Corruption Agency Requests Police to Detain Impeached President
Background
South Korea’s anti-corruption agency, the Corruption Investigation Office for High-ranking Officials (CIO), has asked the police to take over the execution of a warrant to detain impeached President Yoon Suk Yeol over his failed martial law bid. The request was made in an official letter late Sunday, with one day left until the warrant’s expiry.
Police Review Request
According to Yonhap News Agency, the CIO sent an official letter to the police requesting their cooperation without prior consultations. A police official told Yonhap News Agency that the agency is internally carrying out a legal review. The police are expected to make a decision on the request soon.
Previous Standoff
The CIO halted its execution of the warrant last Friday after an hour-long standoff with presidential security staff at the residence. The agency had been working with the police and the Defence Ministry’s investigation unit to conduct a joint probe into Yoon’s short-lived imposition of martial law on December 3.
Options Expired
With the warrant set to expire at midnight, the CIO had been expected to make a second attempt at detaining Yoon or request its extension, among other options. However, the agency’s letter has prompted complaints within the police that the agency is trying to shift its responsibilities after passively executing the warrant last Friday.
Legal Team Rejection
Yoon’s legal team has rejected the warrant as illegal and invalid, noting that the CIO is not technically authorized to investigate charges of insurrection that Yoon faces over his martial law decree.
Conclusion
The situation remains uncertain, with the police reviewing the CIO’s request and the warrant set to expire at midnight. The controversy surrounding Yoon’s martial law decree and his subsequent detention has sparked widespread debate and concern in South Korea.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the reason for the CIO’s request to the police?
A: The CIO has asked the police to take over the execution of a warrant to detain impeached President Yoon Suk Yeol over his failed martial law bid.
Q: What is the current status of the warrant?
A: The warrant is set to expire at midnight, and the CIO has requested the police to take over its execution.
Q: Has Yoon’s legal team rejected the warrant?
A: Yes, Yoon’s legal team has rejected the warrant as illegal and invalid, citing the CIO’s lack of authority to investigate charges of insurrection.
Q: What is the next step in the process?
A: The police are reviewing the CIO’s request, and a decision is expected soon.