Japan: Ex-caretaker admits killing children

A man accused of stabbing eight children to death at a primary school in western Japan pleaded guilty today in the first phase of his trial.

Mamoru Takuma, 38, admitted the mass killing in June at Ikeda Elementary School when he appeared at the Osaka District Court, said court spokesman Norihisa Matsumoto.

Takuma had a history of schizophrenia, but psychiatrists reportedly determined he could tell right from wrong and was fit to stand trial. Police have quoted Takuma, a former caretaker, as saying he wants to be put to death.

The attack at the school in the suburbs of Osaka, 253 miles west of Tokyo, led to calls for greater security at schools.

Takuma allegedly entered the school unopposed and went from classroom to classroom knifing children.

Seven girls and one boy were killed, while 13 other children and two teachers were injured.

After the killings the school introduced an ID card system for staff and parents.