TOKYO (TR) – Tokyo Metropolitan Police have arrested a 58-year-old Chinese nationwide who’s suspected of finishing up a number of thefts on the Narita Express courting again to final 12 months, studies the Mainichi Shimbun (Feb. 26).
On January 22, Long Yongjun, allegedly stole 100,000 yen in money and 4 bank cards from the backpack of a Taiwanese man in his 40s on board the prepare.
The suspect then used these playing cards to buy 4 objects valued at 2.2 million yen, together with a luxurious digicam, at a division retailer in Chiyoda Ward.
Upon his arrest on suspicion of theft and fraud on February 26, Long denied the allegations. “I didn’t do anything like that,” he stated.
Dozens of pickpocketing incidents
The Narita Express runs between Narita International Airport and varied stations within the Tokyo metropolitan space.
According to the Takanawa Police Station, safety cameras contained in the prepare captured Long taking the pockets from the person’s backpack, which had been positioned on a baggage rack. He then eliminated solely the money and playing cards earlier than returning it.
The Narita Express has skilled dozens of pickpocketing incidents involving international guests to Japan for the reason that fall of 2025.
Similar incidents have occurred repeatedly since final 12 months. Tokyo police are investigating whether or not Long was behind these incidents as properly.
“Easy target”
From Tokyo Station, the Narita Express takes simply 53 minutes to reach at Narita International Airport.
Masazumi Nakajima is a former member of the Osaka Prefectural Police who was accountable for theft circumstances. He tells TV Asahi (Feb. 27) that this prolonged interval makes passengers a goal for thieves.
“There are many trains in Tokyo, and it’s entirely possible that someone might get off at any time,” says Nakajima. “Foreigners arriving at Narita International Airport are very likely heading to central Tokyo. Since they stay on the train for a long time, it makes them an easy target for crime.”
By many accounts, Japan is taken into account “crime free.” A vacationer from Serbia interviewed by the community stated, “I haven’t taken any precautions. Japan is very safe.”
However, a vacationer from the United States provided a unique viewpoint. They stated, “I lock my luggage. I try to keep it close to me.”
Foreign governments are additionally taking a cautious strategy.
The Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade commented, “Pickpocketing and other petty crimes may occur in popular tourist destinations.”
Meanwhile, the U.S. Department of State stated, “Pickpocketing can occur in crowded shopping areas, on trains and at airports.”