Thousands of supporters of suspended South Korean President Yoon are protesting near the presidential grounds in Seoul against his potential arrest. They have vowed to protect him and are attempting to block police access.
An arrest warrant for Yoon was issued two days ago. According to the South Korean news agency Yonhap, he is likely to be arrested tomorrow.
Police have asked demonstrators to disperse, but they have refused. Some protesters have lain down in the street to impede removal, while one lay spread-eagle on a police bus to prevent its movement.
Approximately thirty individuals have been detained. Counter-protesters at the site demand Yoon’s immediate arrest.
The warrant expires on Monday, and if Yoon is arrested, authorities have 48 hours to interrogate him and decide if extended detention is warranted. Last month, Yoon unexpectedly declared a military emergency in South Korea, attempting to bypass parliament, leading to widespread protests and his parliamentary ousting.
He remains formally in office pending a Constitutional Court decision on his impeachment. Yoon stated yesterday he has no plans to step down, declaring, “I will fight to the end to protect this country.”
Source: NOS