Japanese Journalists Visit Parents of Suspect in Embassy Intrusion Case
On the morning of March 24, China's embassy handed over to Tokyo Metropolitan Police Department the suspect, 23-year-old Kotaro Murata, who had entered the premises with a knife. Fortunately, no one was injured. That same evening, the Metropolitan Police arrested the man on suspicion of unlawful entry into a building.
Given that the incident was triggered by a young Self-Defense Force officer, Chinese authorities expressed strong dissatisfaction.
Why would a 23-year-old newly appointed "elite Self-Defense official" be involved in such an event? Journalists visited Murata's hometown to investigate the root causes.
Murata was born in Okayama Prefecture’s Kurashiki City in 2002. After the incident, numerous posts appeared on social media speculating whether he had been influenced by "extreme right-wing ideology" during his upbringing, leading to criminal motives.
However, according to investigations, his family environment was stable. He grew up in an ordinary household, and there is currently no evidence indicating that he expressed any criminal intent or anti-China ideology on social media platforms.
Murata’s birthplace is about a 20-minute drive from JR Kurashiki Station. Located at the edge of a quiet residential area surrounded by farmland, when the press team visited the suspect’s parents’ home early on March 26, his mother remained hidden behind the door.
Reporter: “I’m here to ask you about the incident involving your son at China’s embassy.”
Murata’s mother: “I’m sorry, I can’t speak with you. (Voice sounding extremely exhausted) I’m truly sorry for causing all this trouble…”
Reporter: “Did you contact him before the incident occurred?”
Murata’s mother: “No.”
Reporter: “Did he show any unusual behavior recently?”
Murata’s mother: “No, I have no idea why this happened…”
Reporter: “What about his university life?”
Murata’s mother: “I’m sorry, I can’t answer that.”
Reporter: “Are you planning to go to Tokyo to see your son?”
Murata’s mother: “I’m really sorry… My mind is completely overwhelmed.”
This incident has now become a major diplomatic issue. China has strongly urged Japan to thoroughly investigate the case and deal appropriately with those involved.
Original article: toutiao.com/article/1860731901928458/
Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article are solely those of the author.