On the 20^th February, Armed Forces International reported on the curfew imposed by the US military on troops stationed on the Japanese island of Okinawa. The measure was brought in after a number of incidents involving US military personnel – among them, an alleged rape.

A day later, details emerged of the arrest of another serviceman who, it is claimed, raped a woman of Filipino origin.

The first rape claim concerned a 14 year old girl. In this new case, the woman in question stated that the US serviceman attacked her in a hotel.

Behaviour of US Troops Getting More Coverage

The rape has brought much attention to the behaviour of the US troops based on this Japanese island but, historically, Okinawa’s residents have a long-standing complaint over their conduct.

A recent arrest made was one for drink driving. Under normal circumstances, the instance could be expected to get only local media coverage.

However, in connection with the rape(s), global coverage has ensued.

Authorities in the US are said to be aware of the scale of the issue.

US Military Curfew

The curfew started on the 20th February. A statement released at the same time said that the measure would give the troops "an opportunity to further review procedures and orders that govern the discipline and conduct of all US service members serving in Okinawa."

"Active duty service members on Okinawa will be limited to their place of duty or employment, worship, education, or medical or dental treatment", it said.

Of the 40,000 US forces positioned in Japan, around half are based in Okinawa.

Source – Armed Forces International’s Far East Correspondent

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