Pyongyang: North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has reportedly mandated the execution of 20 to 30 government officials in response to severe flooding that occurred over the summer. This drastic measure follows catastrophic floods that devastated the country, resulting in thousands of deaths.
According to reports, provincial governors and other officials were sentenced to death last month for their failure to prevent the flooding. The flood, which struck Chagang Province near the Chinese border, was one of the most severe in recent years, resulting in extensive damage to homes and farmland.
An official source revealed that those executed included cadres from the flood-affected areas. The dismissal of Chagang Province Party Secretary Kang Bong-hoon has also been confirmed. In addition to the executions, several officials face charges of corruption and neglect of duty. A former North Korean diplomat noted that the situation has created a climate of fear among officials, who are concerned about their safety.
The North Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) reported that Kim Jong Un directed authorities to enforce strict punishment for those responsible after the floods. However, due to North Korea's tight control over information, verifying these details remains challenging.
In July, North Korean state media reported extensive damage caused by heavy rains, which resulted in thousands of houses being flooded and significant agricultural losses. The floods led to the deaths of an estimated 3,500 to 4,000 people. North Korea frequently faces severe flooding due to inadequate drainage systems, deforestation, and deteriorating infrastructure.
In other news, a Russian company based in Komsomolsk-on-Amur has been authorized to import North Korean beer, signaling an ongoing warming of relations between Russia and North Korea.
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