Okinawa police arrest US marine; military in japan rocked by second incident in less than a month
Arrest follows reported collision
Police received a hit-and-run report at about 12.15am on Saturday. They gave the marine, identified in the report as Cardona, a breathalyser test after he was believed to have returned to the scene, The Japan Times reported.
Cardona was arrested on suspicion of drink-driving and is reportedly under investigation over the alleged hit-and-run. The account identifies him as 21 years old but does not give his first name.
Incident occurred during curfew
Lance corporal Devin Jacob Ballard, 20, is accused of killing Anna Yagi, 39, in a hotel in Naha and taking her wallet and backpack. Ballard denies the allegations. He was stationed at Futenma Air Base and was arrested the day after he was found walking alone in Okinawa city.
Japanese officials demand action
Defence minister Shinjiro Koizumi said Monday that Japan wanted the US side to take the incident seriously, Mainichi reported. The government also lodged a strong protest with the Trump administration.
Key points
- Okinawa police arrested a 21-year-old marine on suspicion of drink-driving.
- Police are investigating him in connection with an alleged hit-and-run.
- The arrest occurred during a curfew imposed after another marine was arrested in a murder case.
- Japanese officials called on the US side to take the incident seriously.