Forced Detention Without Warrant... Truth and Reconciliation Commission Decides to Investigate Human Rights Violations by Joint Investigation Unit

Illegal Detention for 13 Days After Forced Arrest
Evidence of Harsh Treatment Without Meal Provision
Investigation Conducted Under Psychological Suppression

The 2nd Truth and Reconciliation Commission on Past Affairs (Truth and Reconciliation Commission) announced on the 30th that it held the 79th committee meeting on the 28th and decided to investigate the truth regarding the 'human rights violations by the Combined Investigation Unit.'

[Image source=Yonhap News]

The incident involved Mr. Kang, a former director of the Korea Maritime and Port Administration, who was illegally detained without an arrest warrant by the Combined Investigation Unit under the Martial Law Command in 1980 and subjected to harsh treatment.

According to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission's investigation, the then-new military regime, under the pretext of political reform and social purification, suppressed political and social opposition forces, during which the Combined Investigation Unit forcibly took Mr. Kang in July 1980.

Subsequently, the Combined Investigation Unit illegally detained Mr. Kang for 13 days before the arrest warrant was executed, conducting intimidating investigations regarding allegations of corruption and bribery.

Based on testimonies from investigators of the Combined Investigation Unit, the Truth and Reconciliation Commission determined that Mr. Kang was not provided meals during the investigation and was likely subjected to harsh treatment. It also found that Mr. Kang did not receive appropriate medical care during the investigation and was questioned in a psychologically weakened state. It was confirmed that Mr. Kang's subordinates were also taken and intimidated together.

The Truth and Reconciliation Commission stated, "The state must apologize to the victims and their families for serious human rights violations caused by illegal exercise of public authority," and recommended that "appropriate measures such as retrials and reconciliation should be taken to restore the victims' rights and honor."