Crash prompts alcohol ban for US troops in Japan

US forces in Japan have been prohibited from drinking alcohol following a fatal crash.

US forces stationed in Japan are banned from buying and drinking alcohol

An Okinawan man was killed after a US service member collided with his vehicle early on Sunday morning. The military believes alcohol may have been a factor.

Troops stationed on the island of Okinawa have also been ordered to stay in their residences and remain on base. Alcohol consumption among troops has been prohibited in residences as well as public locations such as bars and clubs, and hotels.

US service members on mainland Japan are also prohibited from purchasing or consuming alcohol, on and off base

The US military released a statement, which read: “The vast majority of soldiers, sailors, airmen, Marines and civilians in Japan serve honourably and make great contributions to the defence of Japan.

“When our service members fail to live up to the high standards we set for them, it damages the bonds between bases and local communities and makes it harder for us to accomplish our mission.

“We are committed to being good neighbours with our host communities and we are thankful for the support we receive from them every day.”

The US forces has announced mandatory training for all military members and US government civilians based in Japan. The training will address responsible alcohol use, risk management and acceptable behaviour.

Okinawa is home to 26,000 troops, more than half of all US military personnel stationed in the country.