GSDF Member Arrested in Akasaka Stabbing Incident
Tokyo, Japan – A member of the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force (GSDF) has been taken into custody on charges of attempted murder following a serious stabbing incident in Tokyo's Akasaka district. Yoichiro Otsu, 43, a sergeant first class stationed at GSDF Camp Asaka, was arrested on November 22nd, though he vehemently denies the allegations.
The Attack and Victim Details
The victim, a woman in her 40s described as a musician, sustained severe injuries in the attack, which occurred days prior on the morning of November 16th. She was reportedly scheduled to perform later that day at a live music venue located in the basement of a building where the incident took place.
Investigation Uncovers Key Evidence
Investigators believe Otsu, a resident of Tokyo's Nerima Ward, knew the victim. Surveillance footage reportedly shows a man, identified as Otsu, following the woman into the building before exiting alone approximately 30 seconds later. A man was also observed fleeing the vicinity on a bicycle shortly after the stabbing.
Authorities allege that Otsu departed Camp Asaka around 6:30 AM on November 16th, arriving near the crime scene by 8:00 AM, and is suspected of carrying out the stabbing around 10:30 AM. Interestingly, an investigative source mentioned that the suspect's shoes were covered with what appeared to be plastic bags, possibly to conceal footprints.
Suspect's Denial and GSDF Response
After the incident, Otsu is believed to have cycled approximately 20 kilometers through areas including Shinjuku and Nerima wards, as well as Wako in Saitama Prefecture, returning to Camp Asaka sometime after midday.
During voluntary questioning, Otsu maintained his innocence, claiming he was at work from morning until midday and then went home. He also stated that while he knew the woman, there were "no issues" between them. The GSDF has issued a statement expressing wishes for the victim's recovery and promising a "strict" response based on factual findings.