A 73-year-old tourist was arrested at Kobe Port Terminal in Japan after reporting a handgun in his luggage while preparing to board a cruise ship. Authorities suspect he passed through security at two airports undetected with the firearm before arriving at the port.

Security Breach at Two Airports
The tourist departed from Honolulu, Hawaii, and arrived at Kansai International Airport on March 22. Investigators are now examining how he managed to pass through security at both airports while carrying the firearm. Osaka Customs declined to comment on the matter, citing inspection confidentiality.

Discovery at the Cruise Terminal
After arriving in Japan, the tourist checked into a hotel in Osaka. The following morning, while organizing his luggage, he discovered he had unintentionally packed a revolver for self-defense. Instead of reporting it, he took a bus 70 kilometers to Kobe Port Terminal.

Upon arrival at the terminal, he discarded three bullets in a restroom trash can before boarding his cruise ship. Shortly afterward, he informed the security about the gun, leading port officials to contact the police. Officers found the revolver inside a pouch in his suitcase and arrested him on for violating Japan’s strict Firearm and Sword Possession Control Law.

Tourist’s Explanation and Legal Consequences
According to police, the man claimed he had packed the firearm by mistake and only realized it once in Japan. Concerned about stricter penalties for possessing both a gun and ammunition, he allegedly disposed of the bullets before notifying authorities.
Japan has some of the world’s most stringent gun laws, with severe consequences for unauthorized firearm possession. The tourist now faces legal action as the investigation continues.