Top investigator downplays concerns of expanded police role from prosecution reform
SEOUL, Sept 28 (Yonhap) -- A senior police officer on Monday downplayed concerns...
On September 28, a senior police official downplayed concerns about the police being given too much power due to pending prosecution reforms. Hong Seok-ki, head of the National Office of Investigation, spoke about the recent change to the Criminal Procedure Act, which will take away the prosecution's ability to investigate crimes.
As part of the reform, a new Serious Crimes Investigation Agency will be established to conduct investigations in seven major crime categories, including corruption and state security offenses. Hong told reporters that the police's investigative scope will actually decrease under the new system. The Serious Crimes Investigation Agency will handle these cases, while the police will focus on other areas.
Hong promised to work with authorities on supplementary investigations, acknowledging the increased responsibility placed on the police.
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