US Marine arrested for alleged murder of a woman on Okinawa, triggers outrage from Japan
TOKYO (AP) — Japanese police arrested a U.S. Marine in the alleged robbery and murder of a woman on Okinawa, officials said Sunday, the latest criminal case on the southern island where the heavy American troop presence has remained a sensitive issue.
Okinawa police detained a 20-year-old U.S. Marine on Saturday for the alleged robbery and murder of a 39-year-old local woman, according to officials. The Marine is accused of killing the woman at a hotel in Naha, the capital city of Okinawa, and stealing her wallet and backpack. Surveillance footage showed the suspect entering the hotel with the victim and leaving alone, leading to his arrest on a street in Naha's entertainment district.
Okinawa Governor Genta Koja expressed outrage over the case, stating that it deals a "major shock and adds fear" to the residents who already struggle with living near U.S. bases. The incident comes amid Japan's increasing military presence on Okinawa, with 50,000 U.S. troops stationed there under a security pact. Newly elected Okinawa Governor Koja also criticized the U.S. military's discipline and troop education, suggesting they are ineffective in addressing past criminal cases.
Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's cabinet has called for enhanced military presence and cooperation with U.S. forces on Okinawa.
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