Under such circumstances, a Frenchman linked to "Al-Qaeda" who was placed on the international wanted list by Interpol for attempted murder and terrorist bomb attacks was arrested in Germany in December 2003. It was found that he had been illegally entering and leaving Japan repeatedly by using passports belonging to others. Furthermore, it came to light that a member of different Islamic extremist group had been temporarily living in Japan with him, highlighting the fact that international terrorists had been hiding in Japan.

Many people from Islamic countries are living and forming communities in Japan. It is of concern that in the future, Islamic extremists may take advantage of such communities to procure funds and materials, as well as to take various opportunities to influence youths into becoming extremists.

Man linked to "Al-Qaeda" who was hiding in Japan (Photo: Jiji Press)