North Korea has detained a fourth official in relation to the recent failed launch of a new navy warship, according to state media. The incident, which occurred last week, involved the destruction of parts of the bottom of the 5,000-ton destroyer. The latest official to be detained is Ri Hyong Son, identified as the vice department director of the Munitions Industry Department of the Party Central Committee, who is said to be “greatly responsible for the occurrence of the serious accident.” He is the highest-ranking official to be arrested in connection with the incident. This follows the detention on Sunday of three shipyard officials, which included the chief engineer, the head of the hull construction workshop, and the deputy manager for administrative affairs.
Satellite images have shown the warship lying on its side at the northeastern port of Chongjin, covered with a blue tarp. State media reported on Monday that efforts to restore the balance of the warship are underway. The incident has been regarded as a significant embarrassment for North Korea and its leader, Kim Jong Un, who has been aiming to bolster the country’s naval forces as a deterrent against US influence in the region.
Kim has characterized the incident as a “criminal act caused by absolute carelessness, irresponsibility, and unscientific empiricism.” North Korea’s first destroyer had been successfully launched last month, with state media reports indicating its capability to carry nuclear missiles and other weapons.
Source: https://www.dw.com/en/north-korea-arrests-4th-official-over-failed-warship-launch/a-72666589?maca=en-rss-en-all-1573-rdf
