Police Launch Full Investigation into Illegal Activities at Gwangbokjeol Rally... Considering Arrest Warrant Application

[Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Lee Gwan-ju] As the cluster infections of the novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) are resurging, the police have launched a full-scale investigation into those arrested for assaulting police officers or disobeying dispersal orders at a large-scale rally forcibly held in downtown Seoul on August 15, Liberation Day.

The Seoul Metropolitan Police Agency announced on the 16th that a dedicated investigation team is analyzing evidence and verifying charges against 30 individuals arrested the previous day at the rally for obstruction of official duties and violation of the Infectious Disease Control and Prevention Act.

None of the arrested individuals have been released yet, and for those with serious offenses, the police are reportedly considering applying for arrest warrants within the 48-hour detention period.

The police are also examining whether the followers of Sarang Jeil Church who participated in the rally violated the Infectious Disease Control and Prevention Act. The Seoul city government reported that the number of confirmed cases related to this church nationwide has increased to 193 as of that day.

A police official stated, "The rally originally planned by Sarang Jeil Church itself did not take place, so in that regard, it can be seen that the city's prohibition order was complied with," but added, "It needs to be reviewed whether the participation of some church members in other rallies was illegal."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.