Japanese Boy’s Stabbing in Shenzhen Sparks Safety Concerns

A 10-year-old Japanese boy's death in a stabbing incident in Shenzhen, China, has intensified concerns among the Japanese community. The attack, which occurred on September 18, has led to increased security measures for Japanese residents. Japanese officials have demanded explanations and enhanced safety measures from the Chinese administration.

A 10-year-old Japanese boy was fatally stabbed in Shenzhen, China, on September 18, raising alarms within the local Japanese community. The child was on his way to school when the assailant attacked, but Chinese authorities have yet to disclose a motive, according to NHK World.

A man in his 30s involved in trade in Shenzhen expressed his anxiety about the city's safety, saying he no longer feels he can live there long-term. In response, security has been heightened around Japanese condominiums in nearby Guangzhou, with additional guards equipped with stab-proof gear and shields.

These measures aim to ease the community's fears. Japanese Ambassador to China Kanasugi Kenji recently visited Dalian to urge local authorities to bolster safety protocols for Japanese nationals and institutions. Prime Minister Fumio Kishida demanded a swift explanation from China and condemned the incident as a 'serious and grave matter.'

In his statement, Kishida emphasized the need for immediate clarification and enhanced security measures to prevent future incidents. Japanese Foreign Minister Yoko Kamikawa echoed these sentiments, calling the act 'despicable' and expressing deep regret over its occurrence.

The attack has sparked outrage among both Japanese and Chinese communities. A Shenzhen resident left a white rose at the Japanese school to honor the boy, expressing feelings of heartbreak and shame. Another resident blamed long-term educational indoctrination for such violence. A removed WeChat article criticized the rise of nationalist rhetoric online, warning of its real-world implications.

(With inputs from agencies.)