Prosecutors in South Korea Seek Extension of Yoon's Detention
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Synopsis
On January 24, South Korean prosecutors filed a request to extend President Yoon Suk Yeol's detention, aiming to expedite the investigation into his attempted martial law declaration. This request follows the transfer of the case from the Corruption Investigation Office, as they lack the authority to indict a President.
Key Takeaways
- Prosecutors filed for Yoon's detention extension.
- Investigation focuses on martial law declaration.
- Yoon's detention could be extended to February 6.
- Potential in-person interrogations may occur.
- Yoon faces serious allegations of abuse of power.
Seoul, Jan 24 (NationPress) South Korean prosecutors have submitted a request for an extension of President Yoon Suk Yeol's detention until early next month, officials disclosed, aiming to accelerate the investigation into his brief martial law attempt.
This action by the prosecution follows the Corruption Investigation Office for High-ranking Officials (CIO) transferring the case to them, as the agency lacks the legal authority to indict a President.
The special prosecution team looking into the martial law has requested the Seoul Central District Court to prolong Yoon's detention period until February 6, as stated by officials.
According to the law, a suspect can be held in custody for a maximum of 10 days, with a potential extension of another 10 days. Yoon was arrested on Sunday.
If the court approves this extension, the prosecution is anticipated to carry out in-person interrogations. However, it remains uncertain whether Yoon will consent to cooperate.
Reports indicate that the prosecution is preparing an indictment should the court deny the extension request.
Law enforcement is investigating Yoon for allegations that he was the architect behind the December 3 martial law declaration, leading to an unprecedented political crisis, as reported by Yonhap.
Yoon is facing accusations of conspiring with then Defense Minister Kim Yong-hyun and others to instigate a riot by declaring martial law.
He is also charged with misusing his authority by dispatching troops to the National Assembly to prevent lawmakers from voting against the decree.
Yoon is currently detained at the Seoul Detention Centre in Uiwang, located south of the capital, while a trial at the Constitutional Court is ongoing to decide whether to uphold or overturn his impeachment by the National Assembly.
If upheld, Yoon will be ousted from office, prompting a snap presidential election within 60 days. Conversely, if dismissed, he will be reinstated.
