Restoring Japan's image as one of the world's most crime-free nations is a key demand of Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi -- and one newly appointed Justice Minister Chieko Noono hopes to meet.
"It is a great concern that public security is being endangered by vicious, and in many cases, juvenile crimes, and even international terrorism," Noono said. "I think it is a pressing issue for the government to ensure that society is safe and secure."
Noono noted the results of a recent Cabinet Office survey, in which nearly 90 percent of the respondents said Japan is less safe than it was a decade ago. Meanwhile, 43.2 percent voiced fears over foreign criminal organizations and illegal immigrants.