Society

Japanese sailor stabbed during remembrance ceremony in Honiara

Aug 08 (rnz.co.nz) - A Japanese sailor has been stabbed at Bloody Ridge in Solomon Islands during a World War II remembrance ceremony in Honiara.

Witnesses say the man, who was part of the Japanese Navy media team, was stabbed in the neck with a pair of scissors.

Bloody Ridge community chief Wesley Ramo said the culprit was from a neighbouring community and was mentally unstable and under the influence.

He was quickly detained by locals and members of the US military present for the ceremony and taken away by police.

The ceremony then continued peacefully.

RNZ Pacific spoke with medical personnel who said the Japanese sailor would require minor stitches but was okay.

Japan's consul in Solomon Islands, Nori Yoshida, said it was a very unfortunate event, and they were unclear about the motive but would be following up with police.

The stabbing has marred what has been a peaceful ceremony to remember those who lost their lives during the battle of Guadalcanal 80 years ago. ...continue reading

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