1. Information Gathering and Analysis and Thorough Investigation

In order to prevent terrorism, gathering and accurately analyzing a wide-range of information is essential. Furthermore, terrorism is an extremely highly-confidential activity and the majority of relevant information gathered is fragmentary. Therefore, the accumulation and comprehensive analysis of such information is necessary.

Since the terrorist attacks on the United States on September 11, 2001, the police have boosted their activities for gathering and analyzing information related to ter rorism. This includes working more closely with foreign security intelligence agencies and other institutions. In April 2004, the Foreign Affairs and Intelligence Department was established in the Security Bureau of the NPA, and the International Counter Terrorism Office, which was previously located in the Foreign Affairs Division, was gradually reorganized into the Counter International Terrorism Division. Furthermore, in April 2005 the post of Director, Counter Ter rorism Intelligence Of fice was established in this division. As such, the police are working toward strengthening the framework against terrorism.

Utilizing the results from comprehensive analyses of the information obtained, the police are moving forward with such activities as thoroughly clarifying suspicions and uncovering and clearing concealed information related to terrorism.

In order to prevent terrorists from entering Japan, it is of the utmost importance to accurately promote border control measures at international airports and seaports, including immigration and the inspection of imported and exported goods. For this reason, efforts are being made to strengthen on-site cooperation among related institutions. In order to realize crisis management, that is to be implemented by the Government of Japan as a whole, the Interagency Team on Border Security and Crisis Management was set up in the Government in January 2004, and by March 2004 airport/seaport security and crisis management officers were placed at international airports and seaports. Prefectural police officers are being deployed to these airports and seaports as airport/seaport security and crisis management officers and deputy management officers. Centered on them, the police is working to strengthen border control measures, including the improvement of security and the implementation of training for terrorist incidents.

Working teams which aimed at promoting immigration control utilizing biometrics , and which aimed at deliberating on measures related to controlling the foreign residents were established in June 2004 and July 2005, under the Ministerial Meeting Concerning Measures Against Crime, respectively. The NPA is energetically discussing systematic and technical subjects with the team.

Patrol at Narita Airport (Chiba)

The police are drawing upon the collective strength of their organization and taking all possible measures to prevent terrorism. This includes gathering and analyzing information related to terrorism, as well as establishing security plans tailored to each situation and providing effective and efficient security.

Since the terrorist attacks on the United States demonstrated the harsh nature of international terrorism, the police has tightened security at important facilities around Japan, including the Prime Minister's Official Residence, nuclear power plants, airports, and facilities related to the United States. In the wake of the terrorist bomb attacks in London, United Kingdom in July 2005, the police has implemented reliable security tailored to each situation. This includes working toward implementing thorough security in regard to public transportation, such as trains.

Security at the Prime Minister's Official Residence