Police apprehend 119 individuals for posting online threats, leading to concerns of copycat crimes and increased security measures
South Korea’s police have arrested 119 people for posting online murder threats after two mass stabbings put the country on edge.
The stabbing sprees, occurring within two weeks in crowded areas of greater Seoul, have ignited fears of copycat crimes. Police presence has been increased in response.
A surge in threatening posts has been reported since August 3 when a man crashed a car into pedestrians near a Seongnam department store, subsequently killing one and injuring 13 in a knife rampage. The suspect, Choi Won-jong, 23, claims he was targeted by a group, and preliminary investigations support his claim. He’s charged with murder and attempted murder.
Choi’s premeditation is evident through weapon acquisition and statements, says Mo Sang-myo, Bundang’s police station chief.