KUMAMOTO (TR) – Police in Koshi City opened fire on a 21-year-old man on Wednesday evening after he robbed a convenience store at knifepoint and threatened responding officers with a blade, reports TBS News (July 23).
Shion Maeda, a local resident of unknown occupation, was arrested on the spot on suspicion of obstructing public duties. He sustained gunshot wounds to his right shoulder and right leg but remained conscious while being transported to a local hospital, according to police and rescue workers.
The incident unfolded at approximately 6:00 p.m. Store personnel reported that Maeda burst into the convenience store brandishing a knife and made off with 30,000 yen in cash. As he exited the shop, he was confronted by arriving officers. After Maeda thrust the knife toward police, an officer discharged his weapon.
No store clerks, customers, or police officers were injured in the ordeal.
Takanori Sakamoto, Deputy Chief of the Kumamoto Kita Koshi Police Station, commented on the incident, stating, “We are currently investigating whether the use of the firearm was appropriate under the circumstances.”
