Two US marines stationed in Okinawa are under investigation for alleged rape incidents, sparking outrage in the local community. One marine is suspected of raping a Japanese woman at a US military base last month, while another marine is accused of raping a woman in January. The first marine is also alleged to have injured a second woman who tried to intervene. The Governor of Okinawa, Denny Tamaki, condemned the alleged rapes and called for preventive measures by US military authorities. US Ambassador to Japan, George Glass, expressed deep concern over the reports, emphasizing the importance of maintaining trust and friendship with the Japanese hosts.

These cases add to a history of crimes involving US military personnel in Okinawa, including a high-profile 1995 incident and recent indictments for sexual crimes. Efforts to reduce the US military presence on the island have faced challenges, with a 2012 agreement to relocate marines to Guam and other locations experiencing delays. The US and Japanese governments argue that US troops in Okinawa serve as a deterrent against regional security threats.

In response to the recent incidents, joint patrols by US military officials and Japanese police have been conducted near a US airbase in Okinawa. The collaboration aims to address concerns raised by the community and prevent future crimes. The cases highlight the complex dynamics surrounding the US military presence in Okinawa and the ongoing efforts to balance security interests with local sensitivities.