Key Facts
• August 8: Defense Minister Gen Nakatani addressed the incident in a press conference.
• Incident occurred on August 6 at a parking lot in Miyakojima City, Okinawa.
• Two citizens from a local group filmed a disaster training exercise by new recruits.
• Citizens used a loudspeaker to comment on soldiers’ attire, prompting a heated response.
• Commander Hayato Higa allegedly shouted, “Get permission quickly!” at the citizens.
• The exchange was recorded and uploaded to a video-sharing platform.
• Local authorities confirmed no permit was required for parking lot use.
• The Defense Ministry is verifying the details of the incident.
Summary
On August 8, Defense Minister Gen Nakatani addressed allegations of threatening behavior by Hayato Higa, the commander of the Miyakojima Ground Self-Defense Force base. The incident occurred on August 6, when two members of a local citizens’ group filmed a disaster training exercise in a public parking lot. After the citizens made comments via loudspeaker, Higa reportedly responded angrily, questioning their permission to use the space and demanding they obtain it. The interaction, captured on video and shared online, has sparked controversy. Local authorities clarified that no permit was required for the parking lot. The Defense Ministry is currently investigating the matter.
