06 Nov 2017 | 02:51 PM UTC
Japan: Unusual string of bomb threats (hoaxes) Nov. 6
Officials report an unusual string of bomb threat, all hoaxes, nationwide during US President Trump’s visit November 6
Event
An extremely unusual string of bomb threats hit Japan on Monday, November 6, as US President Donald Trump kicked off his Asia tour in Tokyo under heavy security. All bomb threats, which took place far away from the capital, turned out to be hoaxes; no explosives were found. Officials evacuated 290 passengers and crew members from a sightseeing ship in Shiga prefecture after a threat was made. A ferry company in Hiroshima received a similar threat, as did a department store in Osaka, and a train operator in Kyoto. The former led ferry operations to be suspended, affecting 6000 people, while the latter prompted the affected train company to close Sanjo Station, affecting 8000 others.
No arrests have been made.
Context
US President Donald Trump kicked off his Asia tour in Japan on November 6. His next stops include South Korea on November 7, Beijing (China) on November 8, Danang (Vietnam) on November 10 for the APEC summit and Hanoi (Vietnam) on November 11, followed by the Philippines on November 12-13, for the ASEAN Summit.
Advice
Individuals present in Japan are advised to follow all instructions issued by authorities.
