Police officers in Japan are subject to strict restrictions in the use of handguns. This is held partly responsible for the increasing deaths of police in the line of duty. Beginning Dec. 1, however, they will be able to fire shots with less constraint when their lives, or those of others in need of protection, are endangered.
Currently police officers can shoot at offenders only after first firing warning shots and only when they cannot protect themselves or others by different means, such as use of their nightsticks. Under the National Public Safety Commission's updated rules for the use and handling of handguns and nightsticks, they will be allowed to shoot without first firing warning shots. The National Police Agency says this will enable them to respond quickly to emergencies.
Security in Japan has deteriorated, as evidenced by the increased incidence of armed violence. This reflects increases in crimes committed by both Japanese and foreigners. Less restrictive use of handguns will improve police officers' ability to defend themselves and to protect the safety of citizens. That does not mean, however, that they can now indiscriminately kill violent offenders or put innocent people in harm's way.