Japan's Former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe Gunned Down During Campaign Speech

The former leader of Japan, Shinzo Abe, has been gunned down during a campaign speech.

The Daily Mail reports the ex-Prime Minister was 'attacked from behind' while he was delivering remarks in the western city of Nara.

Abe was reportedly seen holding his chest and collapsed onto the ground.

Local media broadcaster, NHK, showed the moment security guards rushed to his side after the alleged shooing.

A witness told the outlet: "He was giving a speech and a man came from behind.

"The first shot sounded like a toy. He didn't fall and there was a large bang.

"The second shot was more visible, you could see the spark and smoke.

"After the second shot, people surrounded him and gave him cardiac massage."

The shooter has been taken into custody.

Japan's Chief Cabinet Secretary Hirokazu Matsuno has released a statement clarifying what investigators know at the moment.

"There was a gunshot at 11.30am the police have arrested one man," he said.

"Mr Abe’s condition is unknown.

"At the PM's office we have set a crisis management office.

"[Prime Minister Fumio Kishida] will be returning to PMO immediately.

"Cabinet members nationwide campaigning will be returning to Tokyo.

"Such violence cannot be permitted and we oppose it strongly and we will take every measure possible. "