Seoul: The prosecution service announced on Monday that it has directed prosecutors across the nation to adopt strict measures in response to the recent surge in kidnapping crimes involving minors.
According to Yonhap News Agency, the Supreme Prosecutors Office communicated Justice Minister Jung Sung-ho's directives to regional prosecution offices last Tuesday, emphasizing the need for a robust and expedited response to these offenses. The measures include enhancing collaboration with the police to promptly obtain arrest warrants for suspects and publicly disclosing the identities of individuals involved in serious crimes.
Furthermore, the office has mandated improved protection measures for victims and is advocating for severe penalties for those found guilty of such crimes. This decision comes after an incident late last month, where two men in their twenties reportedly tried to entice children into their vehicle near an elementary school in western Seoul, sparking widespread concern for child safety.
Since then, similar kidnapping attempts have been reported in various locations, including Gwangmyeong, Incheon, the southern island of Jeju, the southeastern city of Daegu, and the southwestern city of Jeonju. The frequency of these crimes has been increasing, with 301 suspects identified last year, up from 272 in 2022. As of August, this year's numbers have reached 214 suspects, with 11 arrests made.
The prosecution highlighted that five suspects have been apprehended for kidnapping incidents occurring between August 28 and September 11.