Paul Watson Detained Pending Extradition to Japan

A Greenland court has ordered anti-whaling activist Paul Watson to remain in custody until September 5, 2024, as it considers Japan's extradition request stemming from a 2010 incident involving a confrontation with Japanese whalers. Watson, who was arrested on July 21 in Nuuk, is appealing the court's decision, claiming the evidence against him is unreliable and that he is innocent. His legal team attempted to present video evidence from the incident, but the court declined to view it. Watson, founder of the Sea Shepherd Conservation Society, faces up to 15 years in prison if extradited to Japan, leading to calls from activists for his release. The Danish Ministry of Justice indicates the Greenland authorities must determine if the deportation conditions are met, with a final decision pending from Danish authorities in Copenhagen. Watson's controversial activist methods have polarized opinions, with some viewing him as a hero while others label him an eco-terrorist.