US forces in Okinawa announced a month-long curfew and a 48-hour pause for disciplinary training following a Marine’s arrest over a local woman’s death. An alcohol prohibition accompanies the measures. Governor Genta Koja pressed Japan’s central government for stronger discipline and relief from base-related burdens. The new restrictions follow earlier Japanese protests over the same alleged crime.
US forces stationed in Okinawa, Japan’s southern island prefecture, announced a month-long curfew after a Marine was arrested over a local woman’s death. The military also introduced a 48-hour operational pause for disciplinary training and an alcohol prohibition. These measures followed Japan’s earlier protest over the alleged crime and demands for tighter discipline among American service members.[1], [2]
Benjamin T. Watson, commander of the III Marine Expeditionary Force, said service members would undergo training during the pause in operations. He linked every interaction with local neighbours to the trust underpinning the alliance and regional security, and said the latest incident had damaged that trust. The investigation concerns the death of Anna Yagi, 39, at a hotel in Naha, Okinawa’s capital, and the alleged theft of her belongings. A 20-year-old Marine is suspected; the arrest does not establish guilt.[1]
Governor Genta Koja met Japanese Defence Minister Shinjiro Koizumi in Tokyo, expressed outrage and requested further disciplinary measures. He also sought action to reduce difficulties arising from military bases on the small island. Residents have long complained about noise, pollution and crimes involving military personnel. Large demonstrations followed an assault on a schoolgirl by three US servicemen in 1995. More than 50,000 US troops remain stationed in Japan under the countries’ bilateral security agreement.[1]
