A joint U.S.-Japan government panel has revealed that U.S. military police in Okinawa temporarily detained a civilian by mistake on November 22. The incident took place during a solo patrol launched in response to recent sexual abuse cases involving U.S. personnel. The Japan-U.S. Status of Forces Agreement prohibits U.S. military police from detaining civilians outside bases.
On November 22, U.S. military police in Okinawa City temporarily detained a U.S. citizen civilian by mistake during a solo patrol, as announced by the Japan-U.S. Joint Committee. These patrols started in September amid a series of sexual abuse incidents involving U.S. military personnel in the prefecture, aimed at enforcing discipline.
The committee's statement on Friday stressed the need to "prevent the recurrence of such incidents by taking all necessary measures." Under the Japan-U.S. Status of Forces Agreement, U.S. military police are not permitted to detain civilians outside bases, highlighting the procedural breach.
Critics in Okinawa view these patrols as an infringement on Japanese sovereignty. Nevertheless, the U.S. military intends to resume them by the end of the year or later, following training for officers. The Japanese government regards the initiative as beneficial for maintaining order within U.S. forces in Japan.
The mishap underscores ongoing tensions in U.S.-Japan relations, particularly in Okinawa, where American bases are densely concentrated.
