On March 20, 2013, the people of Tokyo observed the 18th anniversary of the Aum Shinrikyo doomsday, when deadly gas was released in the Tokyo Subway. Relatives and employees of the metro victims gathered at the mourning session where the attack had taken place.
The attack took place at around 8 am on March 20, 1995. About 25 of the Tokyo Metro Co. Staff of Kasumigaseki Station in Chiyoda Ward, stood in silence in memory of the 13 victims. The deceased included two staff members, who worked at the station. The gas incident had affected more than 6,000 people. Many of the relatives of the victims were also present and added flowers, while offering their prayers.
The subway was attacked by the members of the Aum Shinrikyo, who punctured bags containing sarin, which is a deadly nerve agent, inside the subway cars. The attack took place during the peak morning commuting time, with the intention of having maximum effect.
The group had also targeted trains near the central government district. The attack was ordered by the leader of the group Chizuo Matsumoto, who is also known as Shoko Asahara, now aged 58. Many people had lost their loved ones in the attack and remembering the incident brought back horrifying memories for many.
