The Japanese Coast Guard has conducted a search of the office of a citizens' group following a tragic incident in which two individuals died after two small boats capsized in Henoko waters during a protest operation.
A tragic accident occurred in Henoko waters, Okinawa, where two small boats capsized, resulting in the deaths of two people, including a 17-year-old high school student. The boats were involved in activities opposing the construction of a military base and were carrying high school students for inspections along with activists. The occurrence raised alarms about safety management and operational standards within the citizens' group subsequently searched by the Japanese Coast Guard.
The incident happened on the morning of the 16th, involving a total of 21 people on board, among them students from Doshisha International High School. In addition to the fatalities, 14 others sustained injuries, highlighting concerns regarding the safety protocols during these protest activities. The local citizens' group, known as the 'Helicopter Base Opposition Council', had been utilizing these boats not only for protest actions but also for educational visits involving students.
In light of the serious nature of the accident, the Japanese Coast Guard's investigation specifically targets the operational circumstances and the conduct of the boat captains. According to the council, while the captains were certified and took turns operating the boats, there were no formal written safety management guidelines or rules on departure decision-making, leading to questions about accountability and safety in protest activities.
