TOKYO: Thirty years on from the fatal sarin nerve gas attack in Tokyo’s subway network, survivors and families who lost loved ones are still seeking justice.
Thirteen people were killed and thousands were sickened when cult members released sarin nerve gas in the capital’s subway trains on March 20, 1995. The attack remains one of the most shocking atrocities in Japan, a country known for its low crime rates.
The cult, Aum Shinrikyo or Supreme Truth, has since disbanded. Its founder, Shoko Asahara, and 12 of his disciples were executed in 2018.
But 1,600 former members still operate under renamed groups and have ignored an order to pay damages to survivors and bereaved families.
Shizue Takahashi lost her husband, a deputy station master, in the attack. The couple was just starting to enjoy time to themselves after raising three children when
tragedy struck.
“My life is still being ruined by Aum and its successor groups,” said Takahashi, 78. “We need to carry on and not let the memories fade.”
In 1995, Aum Shinrikyo released sarin gas in Tokyo’s subway, killing 14 and injuring over 6,000.
Survivors continue seeking justice as successor group Aleph evades compensation. Authorities monitor cult remnants, but experts warn of ongoing recruitment.
Advocates stress the need for greater public awareness to prevent future extremist threats and protect individuals from dangerous groups.