Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida survived an assassination attempt during a campaign speech in Wakayama City when a bodyguard blocked a pipe bomb thrown at him.
Authorities arrested 24-year-old Ryuji Kimura, who was in possession of a second explosive device, a lighter, and a fruit knife; an investigation is ongoing.
The video showing the assassination attempt has now gone viral.
WAKAYAMA, Japan (MandyNews.com) — Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida narrowly escaped an assassination attempt on Tuesday during a campaign speech at Saikazaki port in Wakayama Prefecture.
Prime Minister Fumio Kishida was delivering a speech in support of a local candidate from his party when a man wearing a white surgical mask threw a homemade pipe bomb at him. The explosive device, concealed inside a thin metal thermos, flew towards the prime minister before a quick-thinking bodyguard used his briefcase to block and kick it away. Simultaneously, the bodyguard unfolded the briefcase into a protective shield, believed to be bulletproof.
In the chaotic moments that followed, other security personnel quickly escorted Kishida away from the scene, while additional officers subdued the suspect.
The Suspect and Arrest:
Authorities identified the would-be assassin as 24-year-old Ryuji Kimura. Upon arresting Kimura, they discovered he was in possession of a second explosive device, a long silver tube, as well as a cigarette lighter and a fruit knife.
Investigators searched Kimura’s home, located over 62 miles away from the attack site, and found more metal tubes, tools, and materials consistent with the manufacturing of pipe bombs. The motives behind the assassination attempt remain unclear, and the investigation is ongoing.
Injured Officer and Security Measures:
One police officer sustained injuries during the incident, though no life-threatening injuries or fatalities were reported. The prime minister’s close call has prompted renewed discussions about the adequacy of security measures for high-ranking government officials in Japan and around the world.
This event comes just nine months after the assassination of a former Japanese prime minister, further emphasizing the need for continuous vigilance in protecting political leaders.
Public Reaction:
The video of the assassination attempt has gone viral on social media, with users praising the swift and effective actions of the prime minister’s security detail. The footage has sparked a debate on the current state of security measures for political leaders and the potential consequences of such brazen attacks on democratic institutions.
International Response:
Leaders from around the world have expressed their relief and support for Prime Minister Kishida following the incident. The assassination attempt has put global security agencies on high alert, prompting them to reassess their protocols to ensure the safety of their respective political leaders.
Conclusion:
The attempted assassination of Prime Minister Fumio Kishida in Wakayama City serves as a stark reminder of the ever-present security threats faced by politicians worldwide. While Kishida’s security team’s rapid response prevented a tragic outcome, the incident underscores the importance of continuous vigilance and the need for enhanced security measures.
As investigations into the incident continue, it remains to be seen what impact this event will have on Japanese politics and society. The attack may lead to increased security protocols for political figures in Japan and other countries, as governments work to protect their leaders from potential threats.
