Gunman charged with killing Japan's ex-PM gets jailed for life
The shooting, which occurred over three years ago during Abe’s campaign speech, shocked a nation with strict gun control and limited exposure to firearm violence. The case also drew attention to potential connections between conservative politicians and the secretive Unification Church.
Judge Shinichi Tanaka emphasized that Yamagami had planned the attack carefully, targeting Abe from behind when he was least expecting it. The defendant used a homemade gun, and the charges included murder and violations of Japan’s firearms laws. Yamagami showed little emotion during sentencing and had admitted to the murder at the trial’s opening in October. His defense team has yet to decide whether to appeal.
Prosecutors argued that Yamagami’s motive was linked to the Unification Church, which had financially ruined his family through his mother’s donations, leading him to believe influential politicians had enabled the sect’s growth. While the judge acknowledged Yamagami’s upbringing may have influenced his mindset, he stressed that the assassination was ultimately the result of Yamagami’s own choices, deserving strong condemnation.
Members of the public attending the trial expressed support for the sentence, stating that the circumstances could not justify opening fire in a crowded setting.
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