22nd February 2026 – (Tokyo) A United States Marine stationed in Okinawa has been arrested on suspicion of unlawfully entering the grounds of a primary school, according to local media reports. The 21-year-old corporal, attached to Camp Schwab in northern Okinawa Prefecture, is alleged to have entered the school premises without authorisation shortly before 1pm local time on Saturday, public broadcaster NHK reported.
Witnesses reportedly observed the serviceman speaking to a young girl and following her within the school grounds, prompting concerns that led to a call to police. Officers who attended the scene detected alcohol on his breath at the time of his arrest.
According to investigators, the suspect initially claimed he had entered the premises because he “wanted to look at the scenery”. During subsequent questioning, he reportedly said he did not fully understand the circumstances and denied the allegation of trespass.
Police stated that there have been no reports of injuries, property damage or theft in connection with the incident.
Okinawa hosts approximately 70 per cent of U.S. military facilities in Japan, and the American military presence has long been a sensitive issue for local residents. Incidents involving service personnel — including criminal cases, traffic accidents and noise complaints — have periodically fuelled public concern and political debate in the prefecture.