A Japanese Ground Self-Defense Force (GSDF) officer has been arrested after breaking into the Chinese embassy in Tokyo and allegedly threatening staff.
The incident occurred on Tuesday (24 March) morning.
According to Kyodo News, the intruder was identified as a 23-year-old GSDF officer named Kodai Murata.
Source: South China Morning Post
The GDSF, also known as the Japanese Army, is the land warfare branch of the Japan Self-Defense Forces (JSDF).
Murata, who is a Second Lieutenant in the GSDF base of Ebino, Miyazaki Prefecture, allegedly entered the embassy at about 9am by climbing over the wall
According to the Japan Times, he was armed with an 18-centimeter kitchen knife.
The weapon was later found in nearby shrubbery among the embassy grounds.
He reportedly threatened to kill Chinese diplomats before being subdued and detained by embassy staff.
Source: @tweet_tokyo_web on X
The incident was reported to the police at around noon.
Authorities swiftly arrested Murata with no injuries reported.
Murata was later handed over to local authorities and is being investigated for unlawful entry and other offences.
During questioning, he said he wanted to “convey his thoughts” to the Chinese ambassador and demand that the diplomat refrain from making hardline remarks against Japan.
He also claimed he had intended to take his own life if he failed to get his message across.
The Chinese Foreign Ministry has expressed outrage over the incident.
It urged Japan to conduct a thorough investigation and take appropriate action, while ensuring the safety of Chinese diplomats.
The GSDF described the incident as “regrettable” and said it would cooperate with investigations.
Tokyo police have since searched the suspect’s residence and barracks as part of the investigation.
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Featured image adapted from @tweet_tokyo_web on X.