Japan Self-Defence Force shot dead

Two men were shot dead and a third injured when a Japanese Self-Defense Force (SDF) candidate allegedly opened fire on fellow personnel during training at a gun range in Gifu, central Japan.

Police arrested an 18-year-old male SDF candidate on suspicion of attempted murder. The suspect reportedly started shooting with an automatic rifle shortly after training began at the shooting range around 9 a.m. on Wednesday.A 25-year-old and a 52-year-old man have been confirmed dead, and another 25-year-old man is hospitalized.

The three were SDF members in charge of training.The suspect reportedly told police that he intentionally shot his instructor. He also said he shot an SDF member who was next to him because he stood between himself and the instructor and blocked his way.