Yoon Jae-sung, the acting chief of the National Police Agency, publicly apologized for the police's inadequate investigation and allegations of evidence tampering in the Jang Yoon-ki case. He announced the formation of a police investigation reform task force and the establishment of an internal corruption investigation unit under the National Investigation Headquarters as part of follow-up measures.
During a nationwide video conference with police leadership on July 10, Yoon stated, "It is a devastating situation that the investigation team leader at the police station was arrested on charges of evidence tampering related to the Jang Yoon-ki case. I take the concerns and criticisms from the public very seriously."
He continued, "I deeply apologize for causing yet another irreparable wound to the victim's family and am very sorry for disappointing the public."
Yoon emphasized the need to thoroughly investigate the allegations raised in connection with the case. He asserted, "We will conduct a swift and thorough investigation into all matters without any suspicion and will impose the strictest penalties on those responsible within the limits of the law and regulations."
He also outlined plans for a comprehensive reform of the police investigation system. A task force will be established at the National Police Agency to review the entire investigation system in collaboration with external experts and develop improvement measures.
The internal corruption investigation unit will be established immediately under the National Investigation Headquarters. Yoon stated, "We will investigate and take decisive action against misconduct or corruption in police investigations nationwide."
He promised to enhance victim-centered investigations and strengthen external oversight. "We will listen more closely to the voices of victims during police investigations and ensure democratic oversight with citizen participation," he said, adding that he would address procedural shortcomings and design institutional improvements to report to the public soon.
Yoon stressed, "All members must remember that the investigative powers of the police are entrusted by the public. We will innovate police investigations to restore public trust, focusing solely on the citizens."
Initially scheduled to attend a United Nations police chief meeting in the United States until July 11, Yoon canceled some of his plans and returned early on the morning of July 10. Upon his return, he reiterated, "I recognize the seriousness of this matter" and apologized again.
Regarding discussions on the existence of supplementary investigative powers for prosecutors, he stated, "I believe it will be decided through sufficient discussions in the National Assembly, and the police will present necessary opinions during the discussion process."
* This article has been translated by AI.
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