Publisher's Synopsis
The Kempeitai, Japan's secret military police and counter-espionage service, was one of the most dreaded organizations of World War II. It was a grimly efficient corps, possessing wide powers which it was trained to employ ruthlessly. Through sheer horror tactics the Kempeitai tortured and degraded their victims to demonstrate their superiority over reluctant nations and break the human spirit. Founded in 1881 as an elite unit of educated officers, by the time of World War II the Kempeitai had become so powerful and barbaric that even Japanese soldiers feared them. The author of this work traces these roots, along with its recruitment and training, its structure and duties, military philosophy and influence. With the use of first-hand accounts from both Kempeitai members and victims, the ruthless nature of this much-feared organization is brought to life. The book concludes with a look at the fate of the Kempeitai and how its members were easily integrated into post-war Japanese economic and political life. Raymond Lamont-Brown is the son of a former prisoner.
