South Korea's political drama: Yoon Suk Yeol's arrest standoff
Investigators from the Corruption Investigation Office attempted to forcibly enter the residence of the suspended President of South Korea, Yoon Suk Yeol, to execute an arrest warrant. The investigators and police faced resistance from his lawyers and security team.
Officials from the Corruption Investigation Office (CIO) among high-ranking officials tried to forcibly enter the residence of the suspended President of South Korea, Yoon Suk Yeol. The objective was to execute a court-issued arrest warrant on 7 January. The Yonhap agency reported on the matter.
On Wednesday, South Korean investigative services executed the formal arrest warrant for President Yoon Suk Yeol. A convoy of cars with the head of state departed from the presidential complex.
Officers from the Corruption Investigation Office (CIO) were obstructed for several hours at the main entrance of the residence by a cordon formed by the Presidential Security Service (PSS), lawyers, and several members of the ruling People's Power Party, from which Yoon originates.
The investigators arrived at the former president's residence and presented the arrest warrant. Yoon's lawyers engaged in talks with the police, trying to calm the situation. Later, CIO officers attempted to forcibly enter the property, leading to minor scuffles. After a few minutes, the situation was brought under control.
As reported by the Yonhap agency, a group of police officers and investigators attempted to enter the complex through other entrances, including hiking trails running along the hill surrounding the residence.
Yoon's lawyers argued that the arrest warrant on charges of coup and abuse of power in connection with the declaration of martial law was "unlawful." The court issued a warrant to detain the politician twice - 31 December of last year and 7 January of this year. The situation remains tense, with investigators and police continuing their attempts to execute the arrest warrant.
Support for Yoon
A few thousand supporters of the suspended president, who has been in hiding since 12 December, gathered outside the complex. Among them were also members of the ruling People's Power Party, from which Yoon originates.
Yoon's Suspension
President Yoon was suspended from his duties after declaring martial law on 3 December. He revoked it six hours later under pressure from parliament and after South Koreans from Seoul took to the streets to protest the rebellion instigated by the head of state.
An investigation is now underway, but Yoon Suk Yeol has repeatedly refused to appear for questioning. In his absence, the duties of the president are being carried out by Finance Minister Choi Sang Mok.
