Police to Establish Unit for Prosecutor-Requested Investigations Amid Legal Reforms

In preparation for the revised criminal procedure laws set to take effect in October, South Korean police are establishing a dedicated department to manage cases involving prosecutors' requests for supplementary investigations. This initiative aims to streamline the process and ensure compliance with the new legal framework.

The National Police Agency announced on April 12 that its "Revised Criminal Procedure Law Follow-up Task Force (TF)" decided to create specialized units within provincial police agencies. These units will be responsible for processing and overseeing investigations requested by prosecutors. The TF also resolved to assign personnel from outside the local region to positions within the Inspector General's office at provincial police agencies. This 'impartiality system' is intended to enhance the independence of internal oversight functions, preventing undue influence from local connections.

Furthermore, the police force is bolstering its investigative capabilities by increasing personnel in its investigation departments. Following a previous decision to add 881 staff members, the TF has approved additional placements. This expansion accounts for the anticipated increase in workload resulting from the revised laws, which grant prosecutors more authority in requesting supplementary investigations.

The police plan to reallocate personnel from non-critical public safety areas to investigation units before the October 2nd implementation date. They will also consult with relevant ministries regarding further increases in investigative staff. Comprehensive training on the revised criminal procedure laws will be provided to all personnel assigned to investigative roles, including the newly added staff. The TF will continue to meet weekly until October 2nd to discuss measures for strengthening disciplinary actions against police misconduct, securing adequate resources, and refining related regulations.