Japan SDF officer linked to Chinese embassy intrusion expresses "regret"

TOKYO, Aug. 5 (Xinhua) -- The Tokyo District Court on Wednesday held a hearing on the grounds for the detention of Kodai Murata, an active-duty officer of Japan's Self-Defense Forces (SDF), who allegedly broke into the Chinese Embassy in Japan with a knife. Murata expressed regret over his actions, local media reported.

Murata, 24, is a second lieutenant in the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force, stationed at Camp Ebino in Miyazaki Prefecture.

Japanese prosecutors have previously indicted him on charges including unlawful entry and threatening embassy staff.

According to Japanese media, Murata admitted to the facts of the case in court, including illegal entry. He said he had reflected on his actions and felt regret, adding that he would not commit similar acts again and that he would take responsibility for the incident.

After Murata was indicted, his defense counsel filed for bail, but the request was rejected by the court. A judge at the Tokyo District Court said during the hearing that, considering factors including the motive and circumstances of the case, there were sufficient grounds to suspect that Murata might destroy evidence or attempt to flee.

On March 24 this year, Murata allegedly climbed over a wall and forcibly entered the Chinese Embassy in Japan with a knife, threatening to kill Chinese diplomatic personnel. He was later arrested by the police.

The embassy has lodged solemn representations and a strong protest with the Japanese side, demanding that Japan provide a responsible explanation.

So far, however, the Japanese government has only expressed that the incident was "regrettable," without offering an apology or announcing specific accountability measures.