The U.S. Navy has banned sailors in Japan from drinking alcohol after several incidents, multiple outlets reported.
The Navy also restricted off-base activity for personnel. The decisions come after a sailor was arrested for drunk driving on the island of Okinawa, according to the Navy Times .
The incident happened at a time when Okinawa has pushed to get rid of U.S. military bases.
"Effective immediately, sailors are prohibited from drinking alcohol, on and off base. Additionally, all off-base liberty will be curtailed," a statement from the 7th Fleet and U.S. Naval Forces Japan said Monday according to CNN .
"These measures are not taken lightly," said Rear Adm. Matthew Carter, commander of Naval Forces Japan, said in the statement reported by CNN. "For decades, we have enjoyed a strong relationship with the people of Japan. It is imperative that each sailor understand how our actions affect that relationship, and the U.S.-Japan alliance as a whole."
