[Asia Economy Reporter Seongpil Cho] The National Police Agency announced on the 11th that it will operate a special reporting period from the 14th to October 31 targeting overseas Koreans and expatriates to eradicate international drug offenders. This is linked to the 'Intensive Drug Crackdown' planned by the National Investigation Headquarters starting next month. The National Police Agency explained that it plans to focus on receiving citizen reports on drug crimes abroad and domestic drug smuggling crimes.
The subjects of this report include international drug production and distribution organizations involving Korean nationals, crimes related to aircraft, ships, international mail, and express cargo smuggling drugs into Korea. To this end, the National Police Agency plans to actively promote this through local Korean community organizations such as Korean associations. It also plans to distribute promotional materials to local Korean media to encourage voluntary reporting. Furthermore, through Interpol's dedicated communication network, the plan to operate the special reporting period will be shared with 195 member countries.
According to the police, the conditions for domestic drug smuggling have significantly worsened due to COVID-19. However, recently, drug smuggling into Korea from North America and Europe, in addition to Southeast Asia and Latin America, has shown an increasing trend. Based on the criminal information obtained during the special reporting period, the National Police Agency plans to initiate not only domestic investigations but also international cooperation. For drug offenders whose identities are confirmed, Interpol Red Notices will be issued, and active cooperation will be provided for drug cases involving Korean nationals under investigation by foreign police agencies.
The National Police Agency will provide reward money according to legal procedures to informants who provide decisive information leading to the arrest of major drug offenders. Kang Gitaek, head of the Interpol International Cooperation Division, stated, "Drugs are a representative crime without borders, and citizen reports are absolutely necessary along with cooperation with foreign police agencies and international cooperation." He added, "We urge citizens to actively report to prevent the further spread of drugs into the country."
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