Tokyo Olympics organizers hold maritime anti-terrorism drill

The organizers of next year's Tokyo Olympic and Paralympic Games on Monday held a large-scale anti-terrorism drill in the Tokyo Bay area, as part of preparations for next summer.

More than 110 people from the Japan Coast Guard, Metropolitan Police, Tokyo Fire Department and other organizations took part in the drill, which was held near Harumi Pier, the site of the athletes' village and many other events.

During the drill, a man aboard a small boat ignored calls from the Coast Guard and approached waters near the athletes' village. Authorities then apprehended the intruder.

According to the Japan Coast Guard, freighters and sightseeing boats will be asked to voluntarily refrain from navigating in waters surrounding the Tokyo Bay area during the Games. Cameras will also be set up to help guard the area.

A Coast Guard official expressed the need to be fully prepared for any emergencies, including terrorist incidents, by strengthening cooperation among relevant authorities.