VIDEO: Japanese woman arrested for trying to extinguish Olympic torch with water pistol
A woman uses a water gun as she sprays liquid at torchbearer in Mito, Japan. Reuters
Japanese authorities have arrested a woman, who tried to extinguish the Olympic flame with a water pistol in protest against the decision to proceed with the Games despite the dangers of the coronavirus.
The Japanese authorities arrested the unemployed Kayoko Takahashi, 53, last Sunday, on charges of obstructing work by force, after the start of the torch marathon in Mito.
In the video, the Olympic torchbearer makes his way around the city's Sinba Park, heading towards the finish line. At this point, Takahashi shouted "No Olympics" and "Stop the Games" before firing her water pistol at the 77-year-old torch.
The water did not affect the flame, and the runner was not hurt.
The video clip showed an officer carrying a shield obstructing Takahashi, as others arrest her.
Police said Takahashi had confessed to the crime and confirmed that she was protesting against the Olympic Games being held in Tokyo. Police added that the torch relay was hampered by Takahashi's actions, and she was arrested at the scene.
The news of Takahashi's arrest came at a time when media reported that the opening ceremony of the games will be open to VIPs only, without allowing any spectators due to a spike in coronavirus cases.
The Japanese media reported that representatives of the International Olympic Committee, foreign dignitaries and sponsors would be allowed to enter the National Stadium to watch the ceremony on July 23.
Japanese people are opposed to holding the Games, which have already been postponed for a year due to the pandemic.
