Five Uzbek nationals arrested in Tokyo on suspicion of robbery

According to Japan Today, citing NTV, the suspects — all aged 20 or older — were apprehended for allegedly committing theft and robbery in Tokyo’s Shibuya district.

The group is accused of conspiring to assault three foreign nationals around 5:30 a.m. on December 30 last year. They allegedly stole wallets and bags worth approximately 210,000 yen (about $1,500) after kicking one of the victims in the face and causing physical injuries.

Police say the four undocumented suspects are also believed to have earned around 8 million yen (roughly $5,000) by reselling smartphones purchased with credit cards stolen from intoxicated individuals.

The crimes were reportedly committed in at least 10 separate incidents between August last year and February this year, primarily in the busy areas of Shibuya and Shinjuku. Authorities are currently investigating whether the suspects are connected to other criminal activities.

It is noted that the group’s alleged leader may be a 21-year-old mixed martial arts fighter. Japanese media reports that he has refused to speak to investigators until he meets with a lawyer. The remaining four suspects have denied the charges.