Acting Police Chief Apologizes for Leak, Evidence Destruction Controversy

SEOUL, July 10 (Yonhap) -- The acting national police chief apologized Friday for the growing controversy over the alleged leak of investigative information and possible destruction of evidence in a high-profile murder case by police investigators themselves.

Acting National Police Agency Commissioner Yoo Jae-seong made the apology as the police have faced intense public scrutiny over the allegations surrounding an investigation into the murder of a high school student in the southwestern city of Gwangju in May.

"I deeply apologize for the pain inflicted on the bereaved family members that is difficult to heal," Yoo said in a meeting of senior police officials. "I am also very sorry for disappointing the public.

"Through an investigation and an inspection, those responsible for this incident will be punished to the fullest extent permitted by the law and regulations."

Yoo's apology came hours after he returned home earlier in the day from the United States, where he attended the United Nations Chiefs of Police Summit. He had cut short his U.S. trip that was originally scheduled to end Saturday.

He earlier apologized for the controversy when he arrived at Incheon International Airport.

Allegations have recently intensified over possible ties between local investigators and the father of the suspect in the case, accused of killing a 17-year-old female student and attempting to murder a 17-year-old male student.

The suspect's father serves as a police officer in the city.

Multiple police officers at Gwangju's Gwangsan Police Station have come under investigation on suspicions of leaking investigative information and destroying evidence related to the case.

On Wednesday, a court granted a warrant to arrest the lead investigator in the murder case, citing concerns of flight and destruction of evidence.