Chinese Embassy in Japan Reports Threats, Blames Police Inaction Amid Rising Tensions

The Chinese Embassy in Japan accused local authorities Thursday of ignoring repeated reports of threats against its staff and facilities, as bilateral tensions intensify.

Acting Ambassador Shi Yong said the embassy received a letter on March 5 from a group claiming to be former police and military members. It threatened attacks on Chinese diplomatic missions and vowed to “wipe out all Chinese” in Japan. The embassy immediately notified police but criticized them for not investigating seriously or taking effective action, as posted on X.

Japan’s Foreign Ministry declined to comment.

Tensions spiked after Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi’s November statement that Chinese military action against Taiwan could prompt a Japanese response. China retaliated with diplomatic and economic measures.

In late March, a Japanese army officer was arrested for trespassing at the embassy with a knife, prompting Chinese protests and increased police patrols. A week later, a Self-Defense Force reservist allegedly posted a social media bomb threat, sparking a two-hour search—though Shi did not confirm if a device was found.

While acknowledging heightened security, Shi said the embassy remains “exposed to threats.