A U.S. Marine stationed in Okinawa is under investigation for allegedly committing a sexual assault in November 2024, a case that has heightened tensions in the prefecture hosting the majority of U.S. military facilities in Japan.
As reported by Kyodo News, the Marine, in his 30s, allegedly engaged in nonconsensual intercourse that caused injury.
The incident took place in a building in central Okinawa after the Marine and the victim met for the first time. According to SL Guardian, the woman promptly reported the assault to local police, who questioned the suspect voluntarily. He remains in U.S. custody under the terms of the Japan-U.S. Status of Forces Agreement (SOFA), which stipulates that custody of a U.S. military member accused of a crime rests with the United States unless the suspect is arrested at the scene.
Okinawa Governor Denny Tamaki expressed anger and called for strong protests to both the Japanese and U.S. governments.
“There have been five serious and heinous crimes in around the past year that have disregarded the human rights and dignities of women,” Tamaki stated. His remarks reflect the deep frustration in Okinawa over ongoing issues tied to the U.S. military presence, including noise pollution, environmental degradation, and criminal incidents.
Recent revelations have amplified concerns about transparency and accountability. In 2024, two prior sexual assault cases involving U.S. military personnel came to light through local media, prompting the prefectural government to revamp its information-sharing protocols with Okinawa police.
Authorities have urged the public to assist with ongoing investigations by providing relevant information. Meanwhile, Governor Tamaki reiterated the need for structural changes to prevent such incidents and address the long-standing grievances of Okinawa residents.
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There have been reports of many sexual and other crimes committed by US Marines against Okinawans but because of the one sided treaty, the perpetrators are just returned to the US unpunished by the Japanese law enforcement. It has been a very sad situation for the Okinawans.