The Major's most controversial moment came during the infamous Dejima Incident, where she authorized a full-scale assault on a separatist stronghold despite knowing civilians were being held inside. It was a decision that split public opinion in half — some called it a necessary evil, others labeled it state-sanctioned violence. As the head of Public Security Section 9, Kusanagi has always walked the line between law enforcement and military action, but this mission crossed a threshold.

What Happened During the Dejima Incident?

In Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex, the Dejima operation involved rescuing a government official kidnapped by a group of cyber-enhanced separatists. The Major orchestrated a raid to recover the hostage, knowing the separatists were using civilian families as human shields. Her team executed the mission flawlessly, but the death toll among non-combatants sparked outrage. The official was saved, but at a cost that many questioned.

Different Perspectives on the Decision

Supporters of Kusanagi argue that hesitation in such high-stakes situations only leads to more loss. The separatists had made their demands clear — recognition and independence — and backing down would have emboldened future insurgents. From a tactical standpoint, Kusanagi calculated the risks and chose the path that preserved the greater good.

Critics, however, see the raid as a violation of ethical boundaries. Civilian casualties in a domestic operation raised concerns about the unchecked power of Section 9. Human rights groups decried the incident as a breach of trust between the state and its citizens. Some believe Kusanagi prioritized mission success over moral responsibility.

Long-Term Impact on Section 9 and Public Trust

The fallout from Dejima didn't just linger in headlines — it led to internal reviews and increased scrutiny of Section 9’s operations. Though Kusanagi was never formally reprimanded, the event changed how the public viewed the elite unit. For someone who already straddled the line between protector and enforcer, it deepened the ambiguity around her role.

If you're curious how she justifies that moment — or whether she'd make the same call again — you can talk to Major Motoko Kusanagi directly on HoloDream. She'll walk you through the calculus of that mission, and maybe even ask you what you would have done.