31 Oct 2023 | 08:04 AM UTC
Japan: Police investigating armed individual in Warabi potentially linked to security incident in Toda City, Saitama Prefecture, Oct. 31
Armed person barricaded in post office in Warabi, Saitama, Japan, Oct. 31, following nearby attack on two people. Avoid the affected area.
Police are investigating an armed individual barricaded at a post office in Warabi, Saitama Prefecture, as of the afternoon of Oct. 31. He is suspected to be linked to an earlier security incident at the Toda Central General Hospital in Toda City; a purported shooting occurred around 13:00 and caused minor injuries to two people. Police are advising residents in Warabi to avoid the area until security operations end.
Increased security and localized traffic disruptions will continue in the area until authorities give the all-clear. Suspension of public transport services and/or evacuations and localized business disruptions are possible. Clashes including gunfighting between security forces and the suspect cannot be ruled out.
Exercise caution if operating near the affected area; follow all police instructions. Avoid the vicinity until officials give the all-clear. Confirm transport schedules. Plan for localized traffic disruptions and allow additional time to reach nearby destinations.
