Wallet Snatched at Japanese Tourist Spot... Chinese Pickpocket Gang Apprehended

Committed the Crime Amidst Crowds of Tourists
Used an Umbrella to Conceal Themselves

Two Chinese nationals attempting to pickpocket at Sensoji, a well-known temple and major tourist attraction in Tokyo, Japan, were apprehended by police.

According to reports from Japanese media outlets, including the Asahi Shimbun, on May 11 (local time), the Tokyo Metropolitan Police arrested two Chinese suspects—Mr. Zhu, a 47-year-old man, and Ms. Deng, a 53-year-old woman—on charges of theft. The suspects are currently under police investigation.

The two are accused of stealing a wallet from the backpack of a Japanese woman, referred to as Ms. A, near Sensoji Temple in Asakusa, Taito Ward, Tokyo, on May 9. The wallet contained 10,000 yen in cash (approximately 93,000 won) and credit cards, among other items.

A view of Nakamisedori at Sensō-ji where the crime took place. Japan National Tourism Organization website

The suspects entered Japan through Kansai International Airport in April and had already drawn police attention for suspicious behavior, such as inspecting another passenger’s bag on a train platform in Tokyo on May 8. On May 9, they headed to Sensoji and began their crime in earnest at Nakamise Street, a shopping arcade lined with stores in front of the temple.

According to media reports, their method was calculated. Taking advantage of the crowds of tourists, they would approach victims from behind, open an umbrella to hide themselves, and then pull wallets from backpacks. However, while attempting to snatch Ms. A’s wallet, they were caught by police at the scene.

Ms. Deng reportedly admitted to the charges, while Mr. Zhu continues to deny involvement. Meanwhile, the Tokyo Metropolitan Police revealed that there were four pickpocketing cases detected in the Sensoji area last year, with total losses amounting to 115,000 yen. Police also noted that some victims only realize they have been pickpocketed after the fact, suggesting the actual number of incidents may be higher than reported. The police advised, "It is easy to become a target for pickpockets while browsing the stores along the path to Sensoji."

Sensoji, established in 628, is the oldest temple in Tokyo. Approximately 30 million domestic and international tourists visit each year. Nakamise Street, the approach to the temple’s main hall, is especially famous for its rows of shops selling Japanese sweets, tea, and souvenirs.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.