Washington has pledged to work closely with Japanese investigators probing allegations that a US Marine killed a woman in Okinawa, a case that has sparked protests and prompted new restrictions on American troops. Secretary of State Marco Rubio made the commitment during a phone call with Japanese Foreign Minister Motegi Toshimitsu, the US State Department said in a statement on Saturday.
The department said Rubio offered condolences over the death of the Japanese woman and told Motegi that Washington intends to fully assist Tokyo and local authorities during their inquiry.
Marine denies allegations in hotel killing
Local police said they arrested Devin Jacob Ballard, who is stationed at Marine Corps Air Station Futenma, on October 4. He is suspected of robbing and killing Anna Yagi, 39, at a hotel in the capital, Naha. Local media said the woman died by choking and that her wallet had been taken. Ballard has rejected the allegations.
Anger grows over US troops in Okinawa
The killing has outraged many in Japan, where crimes involving US forces have long strained ties between the two security allies and fuelled criticism of American troops stationed in the country. Japan hosts more US forces overseas than any other nation, and most of its 18,000 Japan-based Marines are on Okinawa.
Curfew and alcohol ban for US personnel
US military personnel stationed in the area have been placed under a monthlong curfew and barred from drinking alcohol while they complete mandatory training on conduct and discipline. Rubio and Motegi also discussed US sanctions on the International Criminal Court and a G20 gathering of foreign ministers in Atlanta, which is scheduled to begin on October 30.
