Synopsis
Eighty-six supporters of impeached South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol were detained after they stormed a court in protest of his formal arrest. The incident has led to serious legal consequences for the protesters as police and prosecutors respond to the violence and vandalism.Key Takeaways
- 86 Yoon supporters detained for court storming.
- Protesters faced severe legal repercussions.
- Violence against law enforcement reported.
- Charges range from minor offenses to serious riot-related crimes.
- Police and prosecutors are investigating the incident.
Seoul, Jan 20 (NationPress) A total of 86 furious supporters of impeached South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol have been detained for forcibly entering a court, facing serious legal repercussions, according to sources.
From Saturday night into early Sunday morning, police took action against the demonstrators for breaching the Seoul Western District Court, provoked by the court's ruling to formally arrest Yoon due to his unsuccessful martial law attempt, as reported by Yonhap news agency.
The supporters aggressively stormed the court by scaling walls and smashing windows while throwing plastic chairs, garbage, and other items, even using a fire extinguisher against law enforcement officers present.
This group comprised a segment of approximately 44,000 Yoon supporters who had gathered outside the court on Saturday as the impeached leader attended a hearing pertaining to the extension of his detention.
Some demonstrators clashed physically with police as they attempted to invade the court grounds, disregarding repeated warnings from law enforcement that their actions could lead to arrests or potentially provoke a crowd surge.
Sources indicate that the detained protesters may face charges ranging from minor offenses, such as vandalizing public property—carrying a potential sentence of up to three years in prison or a fine of 5 million won ($3,400)—to more serious charges.
In severe cases, they could be looking at up to 10 years in prison or a 15 million won fine for riot-related violations.
Journalists covering the event, including those from Yonhap News Agency and broadcasters KBS, MBC, and MBN, reported being assaulted and threatened by protesters.
Earlier, the Supreme Prosecutors Office labeled the violence against law enforcement and vandalism as “serious crimes” that threaten the rule of law and the judicial system. They have tasked the Seoul Western District Prosecutors Office to form a team to “firmly” address this issue and stated that prosecutors will collaborate closely with police in the investigation.
Police have also established a special investigation team to look into the incident and decide on further actions against those involved, pledging to handle “sternly” with anyone who broke the law.
Meanwhile, police apprehended a man on Sunday who climbed over the wall of the Constitutional Court, suspected of attempting to break into the building. This court is currently deliberating whether to uphold Yoon's impeachment or restore him to power.
Additionally, police arrested a man carrying a crowbar at an exit of Anguk subway station near the Constitutional Court, and another individual was detained in front of the court for obstructing official duties.
It remains unclear if the three men apprehended near the court are supporters of Yoon.
According to a statement from the Seoul Western District Court, normal operations will resume on Monday, with scheduled trials proceeding as planned. However, vehicular access to the court will be restricted, and visitors will be subjected to identification checks.
