Kitakyushu apartment arson trial begins with defendant denying charges

The first hearing of a lay judge trial began in Kitakyushu, Fukuoka, for Koji Inoue, who is accused of setting fire to the Nakamura-so apartment in May 2017, resulting in the deaths of six residents and attempted murder of eight others. During the proceedings at the Fukuoka District Court Kokura Branch, Inoue denied all charges, stating, “I have nothing to do with it.”

The trial centers on two primary points of contention: whether the fire was intentionally set (arson) and whether Inoue was the perpetrator. Prosecutors argue that Inoue had expressed dissatisfaction with the apartment's management and had made comments about “setting fire” to it. They also cited security footage showing him traveling from his home to the apartment via motorbike and the discovery of a gas torch at his residence.

In contrast, the defense maintains that there is no clear motive for arson and suggests the possibility that the fire may have been caused by something other than arson. Because there is a lack of direct evidence, the defense is seeking an acquittal. The trial is expected to consist of approximately 19 sessions, with a verdict scheduled for January 14, 2027.