BBC News - Japan child abuse

Cases of alleged child abuse in Japan have risen to their highest level since records began 10 years ago.

Police figures indicate 187 children were the suspected victims of physical and sexual abuse in the first half of this year. Eighteen children died.

The report also found that cases of child pornography in the same period had risen by about 60% to 599 cases.

Analysts say the higher figures partly reflect an official clampdown on the sexual exploitation of children.

''It is likely that the actual number of cases is increasing, although it may be that hidden cases came to light in the wake of heightened attention,'' the National Police Agency said in its report.

The agency said that 199 people had been arrested in connection with the alleged abuse - nearly all were guardians of the children.

BBC News - Japan child abuse at record high, police data shows