Japan's former prime minister Shinzo Abe shot in Nara, shows no vital signs: The Straits Times

[Rhiannon12866]

Japan's former prime minister Shinzo Abe collapsed in the middle of a rally speech in Nara prefecture on Friday (July 8) after he was shot, media reports said. Local media said Mr Abe was rushed unconscious to hospital and his heartbeat has stopped. A man in his 40s has been arrested, police said.


Japan PM Kishida says Shinzo Abe in critical condition after shooting

TOKYO - Japan's Prime Minister Fumio Kishida on Friday (July 8) said former leader Shinzo Abe was in critical condition after he was shot, condemning the "barbaric" attack that occurred as Mr Abe was giving a speech during a rally.

Mr Abe was understood to be in a "serious condition" and doctors were trying to save his life, Mr Kishida said.

Kyodo news agency and NHK said that Mr Abe appeared to be in a state of "cardiorespiratory arrest" when taken to hospital, after having initially been conscious and responsive, according to Reuters.

The term is often used in Japan before a feared death can be officially confirmed by a coroner.

Both ruling party and opposition politicians were united in condemning the attack as one that is barbaric and an act of terror.

Mr Kenta Izumi, who leads main opposition Constitutional Democratic Party of Japan (CDP), said that it was an unforgiveable act of barbarism, adding that it was a deplorable act in a democratic country.

Reiwa Shinsengumi chief Taro Yamamoto said: "I really hope he survives the attack. While our political positions may be polar opposites, ex-PM Abe has been working very hard to create the Japanese society that he envisions."

Read more: https://www.straitstimes.com/asia/east-asia/japans-ex-pm-shinzo-abe-collapses-in-nara-shots-heard-nhk-says


Security officers tackling a man suspected of shooting former Japan PM Shinzo Abe in Nara, Japan, on July 8, 2022. PHOTO: ASAHI SHIMBUN/GETTY IMAGES

[BadGimp]

1. So tragic and sad.

[Rhiannon12866]

2. It's pretty horrible - yet no one has come up with a reason...