The governor of Japan’s southern prefecture of Okinawa says all alleged sexual assault cases there involving US military personnel must be reported to the prefectural government.
Governor Tamaki Denny spoke with reporters on Friday about the failure of the central government and police to do so.
Tamaki said he asked the central government on Wednesday to quickly draw up effective measures to prevent a recurrence. He also requested that Okinawan residents be notified of such incidents.
The governor expressed strong expectations that the central government’s planned measures will be thoroughly implemented.
Regarding the use of information provided by the central government, Tamaki said that he can tell residents of Okinawa to exercise caution without informing them of specific locations and other details.
He pointed to a need to carefully handle such information in consideration of the victims’ privacy and added it also affects police investigations.
Tamaki also said he can request US forces tighten disciplinary measures in the event of an incident involving US personnel.
Tamaki earlier met with Foreign Minister Kamikawa Yoko to discuss the matter. Kamikawa intends to announce an improvement plan soon.