TOKYO, Feb. 22 (Xinhua) -- A U.S. Marine stationed in Japan's Okinawa Prefecture has been arrested by local police on suspicion of trespassing at an elementary school, local media reported.

The 21-year-old, a corporal stationed at Camp Schwab, allegedly entered the school grounds without authorization in northern Okinawa shortly before 1 p.m. local time on Saturday, public broadcaster NHK reported.

Witnesses reported seeing the suspect speaking to a young girl and following her, prompting them to alert the police. Alcohol was detected in his breath at the time of his arrest, the report said.

The suspect initially told officers he "wanted to see the scenery," but later stated during questioning that he did not clearly understand the situation and denied the allegation, according to police.

Authorities said there have been no reports so far of damage to school facilities or theft of property.

Okinawa Prefecture hosts around 70 percent of U.S. military facilities in Japan. For a long time, problems such as illegal and criminal activities, traffic accidents, and noise pollution involving U.S. military personnel have been a major nuisance to residents. ■