Prosecution opens internal probe

 

The prosecution yesterday undertook its investigation into corruption allegations involving dozens of prosecutors brought to light by a television program.

 

The Supreme Prosecutor’s Office has established an inquiry commission  consisting of civilians and prosecutorial officials to dig into the scandal, said officials.

 

“Should the allegations be true, the prosecution would be deeply disgraced,” Prosecutor General Kim Joon-gyu was quoted by his spokesman as saying during a meeting with senior prosecutors yesterday.

 

“We will, above all things, to reveal the truth and then take appropriate measures afterwards.”

 

MBC’s PD's Notepad reported Tuesday night that a Busan businessman surnamed Jung claimed to have bribed prosecutors with pricey meals, drinking parties and sexual entertainment over the past 25 years. He also handed over considerable amounts of cash on several occasions, the program said.

 

The program was aired despite an official letter sent out on Monday by the Busan District Prosecutor’s Office which demanded that the station call off the airing.

 

Jung’s list showed the names of 57 former and incumbent prosecutors who allegedly benefited from the illicit bribes, together with the detailed contents and amounts of each meal and party, according to the program.

 

Among the 57 were several high-ranking Justice Ministry officials and two prosecutor’s office heads.

 

“Drastic measures are to be taken against any practice of corruption, should such cases prove out to exist within the prosecution,” said the head prosecutor.

 

The prosecutors have largely been in firm denial of the allegations and claimed that Jung attempted to retaliate on the prosecution for his past indictments.

 

Jung, who is facing trial for fraud and other violations, was additionally indicted on taking 50 million won ($44,923) in kickbacks.

 

The suspicion within the prosecutorial circles, however, grew further as it was found out that Jung filed a petition to the Busan Prosecutor’s Office back in February, accusing some 90 officials of taking bribes.

 

The disputed program previously experienced conflicts with prosecutors after airing special reports in 2008 on the dangers of mad cow disease associated with U.S. beef, following President Lee Myung-bak’s decision to import it.

 

The program triggered a series of months-long demonstrations throughout the country.

 

The producers and writers, charged with defamation and disturbance of public peace, were later acquitted.

 

Source: The Korea Herald