Japan seeks extradition of Captain Paul Watson, outspoken opponent of whaling

Japan is seeking the extradition of environmental activist Paul Watson, who is currently in custody in Greenland since July 21. The Japanese government accuses Watson, the founder of Sea Shepherd, of breaking into a Japanese ship in the Southern Ocean in 2010, obstructing the boat’s progress, and causing personal injury and property damage. Watson was arrested by Greenland police when his ship docked in Nuuk harbor.

Tokyo officially requested Denmark to extradite Watson, but his French lawyer argues that the Japanese justice system cannot be trusted to give him a fair trial. The Japanese embassy stated that they would respond appropriately to any questions regarding the extradition request. The daily newspaper Sankei reported that Denmark has unofficially expressed its intention to accept the extradition, but the decision ultimately lies with the Danish Ministry of Justice.

Greenland, an autonomous province of Denmark, is where Watson is currently being held, and any decision on his extradition will be made by Danish authorities. The Ministry of Justice did not immediately respond to requests for comment on the matter. The situation has drawn attention and raised concerns over the fairness of Watson’s potential trial in Japan.

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