South Korean Authorities Evaluate Firearm Restrictions and Flight Bans Amid Yoon's Impeachment Decision
Click to start listening
Synopsis
As South Korea prepares for President Yoon Suk Yeol's impeachment ruling, police are evaluating potential bans on firearm releases and flight restrictions around the Constitutional Court, citing terrorism concerns. Investigations into possible threats are underway as the court's decision looms.
Key Takeaways
- Police are reviewing firearm release bans on ruling day.
- Flight restrictions may be imposed over the Constitutional Court.
- Concerns over potential terrorist attacks are prompting these measures.
- Real-time tracking of gun owners is being considered.
- Past bans occurred during previous impeachment rulings.
Seoul, March 11 (NationPress) South Korean Police are currently assessing the possibility of prohibiting the release of firearms and implementing flight restrictions around the Constitutional Court in Seoul on the day of President Yoon Suk Yeol's impeachment ruling due to concerns regarding potential terrorist activities, officials announced on Tuesday.
The National Police Agency is considering issuing directives to police stations across the nation to restrict the discharge of firearms intended for hunting dangerous wildlife.
According to regulations, individuals authorized to possess firearms for capturing dangerous wild animals are required to store their weapons at a police facility, although they may retrieve them for the purpose of deterring boars or birds, even post the typical hunting season, which concludes in February.
Furthermore, police are contemplating the implementation of real-time tracking of firearm owners' locations through cellphone GPS technology on the day of the ruling, as well as a review of the firearm usage permissions granted in the last two months.
In 2017, a similar ban on firearm releases during the impeachment ruling of former President Park Geun-hye was enacted.
Last year, a total of 106,678 firearms were registered to individuals and entities.
Additionally, authorities have requested the land ministry to establish a temporary no-fly zone above the Constitutional Court premises in Seoul, prohibiting aircraft and drones from entering the area, as stated by officials.
Meanwhile, police are investigating reports that a local youth organization, allegedly backed by a conservative figure, is planning to carry out terrorist acts against Constitutional judges, as per Yonhap news agency.
Acting President Choi Sang-mok has also committed to a stance of "zero tolerance" towards any violent actions as the Constitutional Court prepares to announce its decision on whether to reinstate or remove President Yoon Suk Yeol.
The court's ruling is anticipated to be revealed as early as this week, with concerns mounting over possible confrontations as both supporters and detractors of Yoon are expected to gather in significant numbers.
