The suspect has been identified as Kodai Murata, 23, an officer stationed at the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force (JGSDF) Ebino Base in Miyazaki prefecture, Tokyo police announced late on 24/3.
Second Lieutenant Murata reportedly entered the Chinese embassy in Minato district, Tokyo, at 9h on 24/3, carrying a knife. China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs later stated that the military officer scaled the embassy wall and threatened to kill diplomats inside.
Embassy staff quickly restrained the suspect before notifying Tokyo police. Officers arrived at the diplomatic facility, arrested Murata, and discovered the knife hidden in a bush nearby.
Tokyo police confirmed no one was injured during the incident. Murata reportedly told investigators that he "wanted to convey his views to the ambassador, and intended to shock by committing suicide if his views were rejected." The specific nature of these views remains undisclosed.
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Japanese police officers stand guard outside the Chinese embassy in Minato district, Tokyo, on 24/3. *Kyodo*
On the same day, China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs lodged a protest with Japan, urging Tokyo to conduct a thorough investigation and provide an explanation. The Japan Ground Self-Defense Force (JGSDF) described the incident as "deeply regrettable," vowing full cooperation with police and strict disciplinary action "based on the facts."
The incident unfolds amidst significantly strained China-Japan relations, which have been at their lowest point in years. Tensions escalated after Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi warned in 11/2025 that Tokyo might take military action if Taiwan were attacked. Taiwan lies just 100 km from Japan's closest island.
While Prime Minister Takaichi later softened her tone to de-escalate tensions, China has not accepted this, persistently demanding a retraction of her statements. Takaichi has so far refused, instead asserting that Japan will bolster its defense capabilities and "resolutely defend" its territory.
Duc Trung (Based on reports from Kyodo, Mainichi, Xinhua)
