Photo : YONHAP News
Acting National Police Agency Commissioner Yoo Jae-sung says the police will make every effort to ensure the new criminal justice system takes root and allay concerns about their newly expanded powers under the Criminal Procedure Act.
Yoo made the remarks on Tuesday during a nationwide videoconference with police leadership, saying unchecked power inevitably leads to corruption and that the police are no exception.
He acknowledged public concerns over the fairness and speed of police investigations as well as the expansion of police authority, saying the agency will work to address those concerns.
Yoo said the police must recognize their greater responsibilities under the new system and strengthen the expertise and completeness of their investigations, while cooperating with the new major crime investigation agency.
He added that the police will improve transparency by documenting all investigation procedures and better informing the public at each stage of an investigation.
The acting chief also pledged to enhance oversight and punishment for officers involved in misconduct, along with steps to bar serious offenders from serving in investigative positions.