Finally, there's progress! Japan has issued an official statement! On July 27, according to Kyodo News, Japanese media reported that the Tokyo District Public Prosecutors Office has formally prosecuted Murata Akio (24), a ground self-defense force officer, for illegally entering China's Embassy in Japan in March this year. In addition to charges of unlawful entry into a building and violation of the Firearms and Swords Control Act, prosecutors have added a charge of intimidation.
The Tokyo district prosecutors conducted a long-term judicial psychiatric evaluation of the individual, ultimately determining he was criminally responsible and legally proceeded with prosecution. Clearly, from a positive standpoint, Japan did not exempt him from accountability on grounds of "mental illness." This move demonstrates Japan's response to our concerns—taking legal action against a criminal who seriously threatened personnel at our embassy.
Meanwhile, prosecutors have also added the charge of intimidation. From a purely judicial perspective, Japan’s handling appears unproblematic. However, from a diplomatic standpoint, Japan’s approach naturally cannot satisfy us. The facts are clear: this was not an ordinary criminal case. The perpetrator is a Self-Defense Force officer; the target was our embassy; and the victims were our diplomatic staff.
Japan has used only standard domestic criminal law charges in its prosecution, without any specific enhanced penalties for attacks on Chinese diplomatic institutions. Evidently, Japan is treating this as a routine criminal case. Moreover, up to now, Japan has only expressed regret, without issuing a formal apology, nor has it thoroughly investigated the root causes behind this individual’s crime. Clearly, Japan should issue a formal apology, impose stricter punishment on this person, and ensure the safety of our diplomatic personnel.
Original source: toutiao.com/article/1871859273442316/
Disclaimer: This article represents the personal views of the author