Crime Kabukicho's 'little rip-off' shops

The Tokyo Bar Association's Takeshi Nakamura, a lawyer with expertise in countering rip-offs and organized crime, pointed out, "Around ten years ago, rip-offs in amounts of 1 million JPY (approx. USD 6,800) were rampant at places like cabarets and sex service shops. But 'little rip-offs' of relatively small amounts at izakaya and other establishments have become more common in recent years."

He added, "There's a high likelihood the touts working in collusion with scam businesses are a source of income for organized crime groups. To avoid becoming a victim, first and foremost, don't be led anywhere by a tout. Once anything has been paid, it can be difficult to fix. If you're asked to pay unreasonable sums, I'd advise consulting the police immediately." Torikizoku Holdings Co. commented to the Mainichi Shimbun, "Our restaurants do not solicit customers whatsoever. That act itself is banned by regulations in many places. We ask our valued customers to please exercise caution."

Click to expand...