Henoko boat capsizing victims' family cuts meeting short

The family of Chika Takeishi, a student who died in a boat capsizing accident off the coast of Henoko, Okinawa, in March 2026, has cut a meeting with the operating group short due to a lack of progress in the investigation.

During a visit to Okinawa in late October, the family met with representatives of the ‘Heli Base Opposition Council’, the group responsible for operating the vessels involved in the accident. The meeting lasted approximately one hour, with the family reporting that the council was unable to provide sufficient answers regarding the facts of the incident.

The accident, which occurred on March 16, 2026, involved two boats carrying 18 students from Doshisha International High School and three crew members. The incident resulted in two fatalities: Takeishi and the male captain.

In addition to the meeting with the council, the family met with the 11th Regional Coast Guard Headquarters to receive updates on the investigation and met with Okinawa Governor Genata Koja. The family has called for improved safety management, licensing, and insurance oversight for organizations providing educational and experiential activities.