A man aged around 40 was arrested in Tokyo after launching, shortly before 6am on Saturday 19th, Molotov cocktails against the headquarters of the ruling party, reported the Japanese press, just a few days before the general elections in the country.
According to the public broadcaster NHKfive or six objects similar to Molotov cocktails hit a riot police vehicle, but the fire was extinguished quickly and left no injuries. The police did not confirm the information.
The man also tried to drive to the prime minister’s office area, but was blocked by a fence, according to NHK. He was arrested on suspicion of public disturbance, police said.
“His motives are unknown, but freedom of expression must not be silenced by violence. I am outraged by this act, since elections are being held which are the basis of democracy“, said Hiroshi Moriyama, general secretary of the ruling Liberal Democratic Party, according to press reports.
Japan will hold general elections on the 27th. Violent crimes are rare in the country, which has strict gun control laws.
