China detains two Japanese nationals over alleged smuggling

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Tokyo: China has detained two Japanese nationals on suspicion of smuggling goods subject to national import and export bans, according to Japanese government spokesperson Minoru Kihara.

 Beijing’s foreign ministry confirmed the detentions, stating the individuals violated Chinese law, though specific details regarding the incidents remain scarce.

One Japanese citizen was apprehended in the northeastern port city of Dalian, with Japanese authorities notified last month. A second Japanese national was detained on similar allegations one week later. The Japanese government stated both individuals appear to be in good health and is taking measures to ensure their protection.

These detentions take place against a backdrop of months-long diplomatic friction between the two nations. Relations worsened significantly after Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi suggested last November that Japan might intervene militarily if China attempted to seize Taiwan.

Since taking office, Takaichi has moved Japan toward a more proactive defense policy, shifting away from the country's long-standing post-World War II pacifist outlook with support from the United States.

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