YOKOSUKA, Japan — A man employed by a major Japanese trading company has been taken into custody following allegations he illegally entered the U.S. Naval Base Yokosuka, authorities confirmed Thursday, February 19, 2026. The incident raises security concerns at the key U.S. Military installation in Japan.
The Kanagawa Prefectural Police are investigating the 40-year-traditional man on suspicion of violating the Criminal Special Law related to the Japan-U.S. Status of Forces Agreement, according to reports from the Kyodo News agency. The man, who is stationed in Iraq, is expected to be formally arrested after questioning upon his return to Japan.
Investigators allege the man entered the base in October 2025 using an identification card. Authorities are investigating the possibility the card was forged and are working to determine how he obtained it, the Nikkei reported.
Police say the suspect has regularly returned to Japan and, over the past several years, allegedly entered other U.S. Military facilities within the prefecture multiple times using an ID card. Live Door News also reported the man rented a car while on the base, and police are investigating the purpose of that rental.
The man has been identified as an employee of Sumitomo Corporation, according to the Japan Economic Newspaper. The case highlights the ongoing need for vigilance regarding security protocols at U.S. Military installations abroad.
Nikkei and Kyodo News reported the suspect is currently in police custody.
