Overview
- During Thursday’s 14th hearing, Tetsuya Yamagami told the court he had no ill will toward Shinzo Abe’s family, said he caused them immense suffering, and declared there was no excuse for his actions.
- He addressed Akie Abe by name in court, but she was not present after attending the proceedings the previous day.
- Yamagami said he has lost family members himself and voiced deep regret, with his voice reportedly quivering as he spoke.
- The hearing was the fifth session in which he was questioned, as the Nara District Court continues to take testimony and assess evidence.
- His defense has sought a reduced sentence, arguing the homemade firearm used does not fit the category of handguns under Japan’s Firearms and Swords Control Act, according to NHK reporting.