Prefectural police officials got a pep talk Tuesday from the National Police Agency chief, who urged that they be on guard for terrorist attacks and cyber-terrorism, and to generally bolster their activities, including neighborhood patrols.
Setsuo Tanaka told the 180 prefectural police department chiefs and officials at the gathering that Japan must be prepared to ensure security for the World Cup, which it will cohost with South Korea from May 31 to June 30.
"We must do our utmost to be prepared for the upcoming events, and I want you to come up with various measures," Tanaka said, ordering the departments to gird against poison and other dangerous substances that could be used by terrorists.
He also said he thinks the laws against stalking and domestic violence that took effect in the past two years have been appropriately administered and hopes each police force properly handles cases involving violence against women.
"The police mission of ensuring the safety of the Japanese people is especially important," Tanaka said, urging the officials to prioritize reinforcing community patrols, as has been demanded by the public.