TOKYO (TR) – Tokyo Metropolitan Police on Monday evening conducted another special patrol of a red-light district of Shinjuku Ward to warn against criminal activities as year-end parties continue, reports TBS News (Dec. 23).
Yusuke Takatsuna, the superintendent general of the Tokyo police, was among a group of officers that roamed the streets of the Kabukicho area to raise awareness about bars and clubs that drug and overcharge customers (a practice known as bottakuri), the sale of illegal drugs and robberies of convenience stores.
“With an eye on the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, we are seeking to shine a light on the activities of organized crime in the area and initiate crackdowns,” said Takatsuna, according to the Nikkei Shimbun (Dec. 22).
Earlier this month, officers and volunteers conducted similar patrols in Kabukicho and Shibuya Ward’s Center-gai area.
Tokyo police have mobilized a special force to cover entertainment districts in the metropolis over the current holiday period. The effort will continue until January 3.