On Tuesday, authorities arrested Riku Hotta, a 25-year-old office worker from Otsu City, on charges of violating the Animal Welfare Act. The arrest followed an incident on Okunoshima Island where Hotta allegedly killed a rabbit by kicking it. This island, often referred to as "Rabbit Island," is renowned for its large population of free-roaming rabbits, making the incident particularly shocking to locals and visitors alike.
The death of the rabbit was witnessed by Takayuki Nakamura, a photographer who, along with his wife Maroya, has been documenting the rabbits of Okunoshima for 25 years. Nakamura captured the tragic event and later detailed the incident in a blog entry, highlighting Hotta's actions. Investigators now suspect that Hotta may be linked to the deaths of at least 77 more rabbits over the last two months, a revelation that has stirred significant public outrage.
"Since November of last year, there have been mysterious mass deaths among the rabbits of Okunoshima," – Takayuki Nakamura
The couple's blog has served as a vital platform for raising awareness about the plight of Okunoshima's rabbits. In his detailed account, Nakamura expressed concern over the series of unexplained rabbit deaths occurring since November. He initially speculated about an infectious disease but later considered human involvement more likely.
"There was a possibility that it was an infectious disease, but considering the circumstances, we thought it was probably caused by a person." – Takayuki Nakamura
Okunoshima Island is not only a tourist attraction but also a symbol of natural beauty and peace. The rabbits that inhabit it have become an integral part of the local culture and economy, drawing visitors worldwide. The recent incidents have therefore raised alarm among animal welfare advocates and local authorities, prompting calls for stricter measures to protect the island's wildlife.
The charges against Hotta underscore the importance of adhering to the Animal Welfare Act, which aims to prevent cruelty against animals and ensure their protection. As investigations continue, authorities are appealing to the public for any information that might shed light on these incidents. Meanwhile, local residents and tourists are voicing their concerns over the need for enhanced security measures to safeguard the island's beloved inhabitants.
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