November 7, 2018 Ryukyu Shimpo online edition
On November 7, the Okinawa Defense Bureau (ODB) moved forward with installing floats on the ocean as part of construction of the Futenma replacement facility in Henoko, Nago City.
Citizens who oppose construction of this facility went out before 8:00 a.m. on two protest boats and twelve canoes to object to the installation of these floats.
The orange floats are being gradually laid out in the water of Oura Bay, and now stretch to about 100 meters from the already-constructed K9 seawall to the north.
Protestors in canoes commented that once connected to shore the floats will make getting close to the actual construction site difficult, which in turn will make protest activities more difficult.
Those in the canoes stayed close to the yet-to-be-connected end of the floats, and protested the new floats being set up and keeping them from shore.
Citizens called out, “Through the gubernatorial election the people of Okinawa have shown that we do not want a base built in these waters; understand these sentiments.”
US Osprey were seen repeatedly landing and taking off over the ocean, which was crowded with work ships and Japan Coast Guard inflatable boats.
(English translation by T&CT and Erin Jones)
