A member of Japan’s Ground Self‑Defense Force was dismissed on Friday after a drug test found cannabis and other illegal substances, the military said.
The serviceman was stationed at Kaitaichi Camp in Hiroshima Prefecture. Police received a report of a public disturbance on Aug. 29 and brought the soldier in for questioning.
During the interrogation the soldier suddenly collapsed, was taken to a hospital, and a drug test was performed. The test returned positive for cannabis and other illegal drugs.
Local police arrested him in September on suspicion of violating drug‑control laws. The dismissal follows Japan’s strict zero‑tolerance policy on drug use among its armed forces.
The incident highlights the serious repercussions for soldiers who break drug laws, affecting their career and the military’s reputation for discipline and integrity.
