Written By Lisa Murimi
The fatal stabbing of a 10-year-old Japanese boy in the Chinese city of Shenzhen has ignited fear among the Japanese expatriate community.
Major corporations, including Toshiba, Toyota, and Panasonic, have warned their employees to exercise caution, with Panasonic offering free flights home.
The tragic incident, which occurred on Wednesday near the Shenzhen Japanese School, marks the third high-profile attack on foreigners in China in recent months.
Japanese authorities have condemned the violence and urged the Chinese government to ensure the safety of foreign nationals.
The 44-year-old assailant, who was arrested at the scene, had a criminal history, but the motive remains unclear.
Chinese officials have called the attack an “isolated incident,” but tensions remain high.
Japanese schools in China are on alert, with some canceling activities and advising parents to be vigilant.
This incident underscores the fragile relations between China and Japan, with Japanese expats now re-evaluating their safety in the country.
Prime Minister Fumio Kishida has demanded an explanation from Beijing, as the attack could further strain diplomatic and economic ties between the two nations.