According to a report by the Japanese Kyodo News on August 5, Ryutaro Murata, a third-class land officer of the Japan Ground Self-Defense Forces, entered the Chinese Embassy in Tokyo's Koto District with a kitchen knife in March this year. He is accused of threatening the staff of the embassy and has been charged with illegal intrusion into a building, violation of the Knife and Sword Act, and harassment charges. On the 5th, the Tokyo District Court held a hearing to explain the reasons for his detention. The judge stated that 'the defendant has the potential to destroy evidence or escape.'
Murakawa remained calm in court. He explained that the idea that sparked his criminal motives was 'not something that can be easily changed', but it was merely 'personal political opinion'.
He also said that during his detention, meeting with his parents and communicating with his brother deeply touched him. He stated, “This has caused great trouble for my family and work place. I have reflected on this deeply and feel regretful, so I will not repeat this mistake again. I intend to take responsibility for this incident, and therefore I will not commit suicide or run away.”
