South Korea police officer probed over deaths, falsified case closures

South Korean police have launched an inquiry into an officer stationed on Jeju Island following the discovery of four bodies over a 72-hour period and allegations that the officer falsely closed multiple missing persons investigations. The timing of the discoveries has prompted authorities to examine whether cases were prematurely or improperly marked as resolved. The investigation centres on whether proper procedures were followed in handling missing persons reports and whether the officer's actions may have hindered the search for those who subsequently went missing. Regional police officials have not yet disclosed details regarding the identities of the deceased or the circumstances surrounding each discovery. The case has drawn scrutiny to law enforcement protocols in Jeju, a popular tourist destination and South Korea's largest island, as authorities work to determine if investigative lapses contributed to the deaths.