Illicit acquisition comes amid an unprecedented reptile boom in Japan
TokyoReporter
Ringleader directing the operation is believed to be a Chinese national
Suspect stood in an imposing stance with his legs firmly planted on a street
Suspect said, 'I have no recollection of this'
Special task force set up a covert headquarters in a vacant room at an undisclosed Tokyo precinct
Suspect said, 'I didn't know it was marijuana'
Owner noticed the reptile was missing at around 7 p.m. on September 18
Suspect said, 'The girl who answered the door was my type'
Defendant said, 'I am truly sorry'
Suspect said, 'There is no mistake that I used violence'