Former Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe was shot dead on Friday morning at 8 am by Indian time ( 11.30 am Japan time ) when he was delivering a speech during an election campaign in Nara city. The 42-year-old assailant who fired at him from behind was arrested on the spot. According to media reports, the accused's name is Yamagami Tetsuya and he shot Shinzo Abe because he was unhappy with his policies.
Abe collapsed shortly after being hit by two bullets right after which he was immediately taken to Nara Medical University Hospital by helicopter. For 6 hours the medical team tried to save him. The incident happened at 8 am Indian time.
The attacker Yamagami Tetsuya was arrested and the gun used which looks like a TV camera has also been recovered from him. As per the Japanese media, the attacker used a handmade gun. He was a member of the Maritime Self Defense Force
According to Japanese media reports, Shinzo also suffered a heart attack after being shot . However, no official statement has come about it yet. According to eyewitnesses, gunshots were heard on the spot and blood was seen oozing from Abe's body.
Shinzo was campaigning for Japan’s Upper House elections which are due on Sunday and there was a small gathering on the street, which was attended by over 100 people. When Abe came to deliver the speech, an assailant opened fire from behind. The attacker tried to escape after attacking Shinzo Abe. However, he was caught immediately by the security personnel present on the spot. In the videos that are coming out, smoke was visible after the attack. After that there was chaos. The accused is being questioned by the police.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed deep grief over the death of Abe. Modi said in a tweet – Abe played an important role in India-Japan relations and global partnership. Today there is mourning all over India. We stand with our Japanese brothers and sisters in this difficult time. Abe had a good relationship with Modi. His Gujarat and Banaras visit was very popular. On 25 January 2021, India honored Abe with the Padma Vibhushan.