South Korean investigators are intensifying their efforts to arrest impeached President Yoon Suk Yeol after he defied attempts to bring him into custody over his failed martial law bid. Investigators from the Corruption Investigation Office (CIO) have asked the police to take over due to the difficulties in executing the arrest. “The validity of the warrant expires today. We plan to request an extension from the court today,” CIO deputy director Lee Jae-Seung stated. Despite these efforts, the police have yet to accept the request.

Yoon’s legal team has repeatedly refuted the CIO’s authority to arrest him, claiming that the warrant is “unlawful” and “illegal.” His lawyers pledged to take further legal action against the warrant. Meanwhile, Yoon’s supporters have remained defiant, with his presidential security service vowing to protect him. “The Presidential Security Service will protect the President, and we will protect the Presidential Security Service till midnight,” said Kim Soo-yong, one of the protest organizers.

Read more: South Korea Issues Arrest Warrant for President Yoon Suk-Yeol

Authorities initially issued the warrant after Yoon refused to emerge for questioning regarding his martial law decree. The investigation stems from allegations that Yoon suspended civilian rule, plunging South Korea into its worst political crisis in decades. If convicted, Yoon could face prison or even the death penalty for insurrection. The ongoing political unrest has sparked protests in the streets.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken arrived in Seoul for talks. However, his focus shifted when North Korea launched a missile just before the press conference. Meanwhile, South Korea’s Constitutional Court has set January 14 as the start of Yoon’s impeachment trial, which may continue without his presence if he does not attend. The trial could determine whether Yoon’s powers will be restored or whether he will be dismissed.