Shinzo Abe: Former Japanese Prime Minister dies after being shot giving speech

TW: This article contains footage that you may find distressing

The man made no attempt to flee

Former Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe has died following a sudden attack during a speech in the western city of Nara. The 67-year-old was shot on the right side of his neck, to the left of his collar bone, by what many believe to be a homemade firearm. According to state broadcaster NHK and the Nara City Fire Department, a 41-year-old man by the name of Tetsuya Yamagami has been arrested. Local media also suggests that Yamagami is a former Japan's Maritime Self-Defense Force member. Abe served as Japan's PM for two terms, from 2006 to 2007 and then again from 2012 to 2020, according to The Washington Post. A member of the centre-right Liberal Democratic Party, Abe was modern Japan’s longest-serving Prime Minister and sought to tackle enormous issues like a stagnated economy and reinforcing foreign partnerships. Under his leadership, Japan became a vocal critic of China's treatment of Taiwan, urging the United States to commit to defending Taiwan in case of attack. Leaders from across the globe have shared their condolences, with India's Narendra Modi writing: "I am shocked and saddened beyond words at the tragic demise of one of my dearest friends, Shinzo Abe. https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1545335314977538048 "He was a towering global statesman, an outstanding leader, and a remarkable administrator. He dedicated his life to make Japan and the world a better place." Similarly, Scotland's Nicola Sturgeon wrote: "Shocked and deeply saddened by this terrible news. My condolences - and those of @scotgov- are with Shinzo Abe’s family and the people of Japan." Our own PM Boris Johnson, at least for the near future, tweeted: "Incredibly sad news about Shinzo Abe. https://twitter.com/BorisJohnson/status/1545337519314796544 "His global leadership through unchartered times will be remembered by many. My thoughts are with his family, friends and the Japanese people. "The UK stands with you at this dark and sad time."

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