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US army tries to quell rape fury
20/02/2008 10:24 - (SA)
Tokyo - The US military in Japan restricted 45 000 troops, civilian employees and their families to bases, workplaces or off-base homes on Wednesday, to quell a furore over rape allegations against a Marine.
The restrictions went beyond a midnight curfew already in place for enlisted Marines on the southern Japanese island of Okinawa, where the rape case occurred and where most of the 50 000 US troops in the country are based.
The order, which focused on Okinawa but also affected Marines throughout Japan, was issued as a recent string of crimes blamed on American servicemen has stoked long-simmering sentiment against the US military presence.
"This period of reflection will allow commanders and all service members an opportunity to further review procedures and orders that govern the discipline and conduct of all US service members serving in Okinawa," the US military said in a statement.
The restrictions affect all arms of the US military in Okinawa, civilian employees such as American teachers at base schools, and their families.
He forced her down, but did not rape her...
The Japanese government welcomed the measure, but said more must be done to avoid further crimes.
"Japan plans to have close consultations with the US for appropriate prevention measures over the mid- and long-term to be taken by the US side," the Foreign Ministry said in a statement.
The latest furore began with the arrest last week of 38-year-old Staff Sergeant Tyrone Luther Hadnott in the alleged rape of a 14-year-old girl in Okinawa.
Hadnott admitted to investigators that he forced the girl down and kissed her, but said he did not rape her, police say.
The tensions have been compounded in recent days by allegations of additional less serious crimes, such as drunk driving, trespassing and counterfeiting.
Japanese leaders have deplored the behaviour and accused the US military of lax discipline.
Japan demands discipline
The new restriction bans military personnel from leaving their bases except for official business, work, worship or travel to and from housing, essentially banning troops from off-base bars, restaurants and nightclubs.
Military officials have apologised profusely, and US Ambassador Thomas Schieffer travelled to Okinawa last week to smooth relations.
Over the past week, Okinawan lawmakers have passed resolutions demanding tighter discipline among American troops, and groups have held several protests.
The Hadnott case has prompted comparisons with the 1995 rape of a 12-year-old Okinawan girl by three US servicemen.
Military officials said they hoped the restrictions would encourage better behaviour by troops.
"The intent is to just inconvenience people," said Col Eric Schnaible, spokesperson for US forces. "Hopefully ... people will realise, you know, `Got it, and we will behave as we should."'
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