Police Deploy Sniper Detection Equipment... Enhanced Security for Presidential Candidates

"Democratic Party Did Not Report Russian Rifle Tip-off to Police"

The National Police Agency announced on May 14 that it would deploy firearms observation equipment at the scene and assign additional dedicated security personnel to ensure the safety of the 21st presidential election candidates.

Lee Jae Myung, the Democratic Party presidential candidate, is wearing a campaign outfit over a bulletproof vest. Photo by Kim Hyun Min

To prevent terrorist attacks, the police are deploying special police units at each event venue, conducting safety inspections using explosive detection dogs, and stationing explosive ordnance disposal teams on site as a precautionary measure.

The police are also operating specialized equipment, such as radio frequency detectors and jamming guns, to counter potential drone-based terrorist attacks. In addition, police officers are being heavily deployed in buildings, on rooftops, and along major routes near campaign venues attended by the candidates.

All divisions of the local police stations are fully mobilized to alleviate congestion around campaign sites, maintain public order, manage traffic safety, and carry out criminal investigations for the immediate apprehension of illegal actors. Furthermore, police riot squads are being deployed to respond to sudden rallies and protests.

Previously, the Democratic Party has repeatedly claimed that there is credible information regarding the importation of Russian-made rifles. Cho Seung Rae, head of public relations for the Central Election Committee, stated, "With the growing threats of terrorism against candidate Lee, we have established a counter-terrorism response team led by Kim Min Seok, the standing election committee chair." Kim Min Seok added, "We have also received reports of potential terrorist attacks involving firearms and explosives, so we cannot afford to let our guard down."

At a regular press briefing on May 12, an official from the National Police Agency commented on the Democratic Party's report about Russian-made rifles, saying, "There is nothing that has been confirmed at the police level so far. No official report has been filed by the Democratic Party." The official added, "We will review whether the Democratic Party's claims constitute the crime of spreading false information."