In brief
The serviceman collapsed during a police interrogation on August 29, was hospitalized, and a drug test showed cannabis and other illegal drugs. Kyodo News reported that he was subsequently arrested and dismissed from the Japan Ground Self‑Defense Force in November.
A member of the Japan Ground Self‑Defense Force was dismissed on Friday for using cannabis and other illegal drugs, according to an Xinhua news report based on statements from the Kyodo News agency.
The serviceman was stationed at Kaitaichi Camp in Hiroshima Prefecture, an armed‑forces installation located in eastern Hiroshima.
On the evening of August 29, police received a report of a public disturbance at the camp. During the questioning, the serviceman suddenly collapsed and was taken by ambulance to a local hospital.
Following treatment, a drug test conducted at the hospital returned positive for cannabis as well as other illegal substances.
Local police officials arrested the serviceman in September under suspicions of violating Japan’s drug‑control laws, the Xinhua report said.
After the findings of the drug test and the subsequent arrest, the Japan Ground Self‑Defense Force dismissed the serviceman by early November, a decision reviewed by the chain of military command before being issued in writing.
The removal and arrest came after the Self‑Defense Forces reiterated in recent years that members are subject to the same national drug laws as civilians, and that any use of illegal substances can lead to disciplinary action, dismissal, and criminal prosecution.
No further details have been released by the Ministry of Defense or the camp’s commanding officer regarding the serviceman’s prior record, the nature of the “other illegal drugs,” or the length of the dismissal policy being applied.
The Xinhua report reported the incident on Thursday and cited a statement from Kyodo News that confirmed the dismissal and arrest dates but did not furnish additional comment from the service branch or police.
The event highlights ongoing enforcement of drug regulations within Japan’s militaries and their role in ensuring disciplined conduct among service members.
