2019 Kyoto Animation arson case: Japan prosecutors seek death penalty for Shinji Aoba

Japanese prosecutors are seeking death penalty for Shinji Aoba, the man charged with the 2019 arson attack on Kyoto Animation, as the final verdict is set to be delivered on January 25.

The devastating blaze in July 2019 that sent shockwaves through Japan resulted in the tragic killing of 36 people. Aoba, who suffered severe burns in the incident, has confessed to igniting the fire. He is now facing multiple charges, including murder, attempted murder, and arson.

Japan maintains the death penalty and administers it in cases of serious crimes, even though the country has faced criticism from human rights organisations for its use. Concerns have also been raised about potential flaws in the justice system, such as reliance on confessions and limited access to legal representation.

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Aoba's confession of having started the fire came in September.

On Wednesday (Dec 6) he, for the first time, expressed remorse during his trial, acknowledging his deep sorrow and guilt.

"I feel tremendously sorry and the feeling includes a sense of guilt," Aoba reportedly told the court.

What are the accusations?

Aoba is accused of setting the blaze in rage over alleged stealing of ideas by Kyoto Animation. He unlawfully entered the studio, pouredgasoline on the ground, and set it ablaze while reportedly shouting "drop dead". Those who died included young staff members, with more than 30 others sustaining injuries.

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At the trial, prosecutors described the arson as an act "committed out of misplaced resentment," attributing Aoba's actions to a delusional belief that Kyoto Animation had stolen his ideas, an accusation vehemently denied by the studio.

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Aoba, who suffered extensive burns covering over 90 per cent of his skin, underwent multiple surgeries and regained consciousness weeks later. His lawyers have entered the not-guilty plea,arguing that he lacked the capacity to distinguish between right and wrong due to a mental disorder.

(With inputs from agencies)