Crime Brutal stabbing in Dotonbori shows dark shift in Osaka

Authorities believe the suspect and the victims had met shortly before the incident at an area known as "Gurishita," the space beneath the iconic Glico billboard where young people have gathered for several years. Once seen as a place for youths struggling with loneliness or family issues to find companionship, the site has increasingly become associated with drug use, underage drinking, and transactional relationships, according to interviews conducted by Kansai TV's News Runner program. People familiar with the area say its atmosphere has shifted in recent years. Some claim individuals now frequent the location to make money through intimidation, robbery, or other illicit activities. Others report an increase in drug overdoses and organised groups exerting control over younger visitors. One regular described the area bluntly: "It's not a place you should come anymore." Several sources who knew the suspect said he appeared to operate under individuals who held influence over the area and was often seen carrying a knife. They described frequent confrontations, sometimes sparked by minor incidents such as bumping into someone, that could escalate quickly into violence.

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