Four men arrested for luxury apartment theft in Shibuya linked to Aichi group

Police have arrested four men residing in Aichi Prefecture in connection with a series of thefts targeting high-end properties in Tokyo. The suspects, including 42-year-old Yoshimichi Tsutsumi, are accused of breaking into a luxury apartment in Shibuya in May 2026 to steal heated tobacco products. The Metropolitan Police Department has confirmed that this group is linked to at least 10 different theft cases occurring within Tokyo during 2026.

Details of the Shibuya incident

The investigation into the Shibuya robbery revealed specific methods used by the group to gain entry to private residences. According to Japanese media, the suspects reportedly used a crowbar to force open an automatic door to enter the luxury apartment. Once inside the building, the suspects allegedly entered a room that was left unlocked, where they proceeded to steal various heated tobacco products.

The investigation has also uncovered evidence suggesting that the group meticulously planned their targets. Japanese media reported that images of targeted luxury cars and specific residences were discovered on the suspects' smartphones. This suggests a level of premeditation aimed at identifying high-value locations and assets before traveling to the capital to commit the crimes.

A pattern of organized crime

Authorities believe the suspects are part of an organized theft group based in Aichi Prefecture. Evidence suggests that the group travels from Aichi to Tokyo specifically to carry out these operations, reportedly using stolen vehicles to facilitate their movement between regions. This mobility has allowed the group to strike multiple locations across the metropolitan area.

The scope of the group's activity in Tokyo appears to be significant. Beyond the Shibuya incident in May, Japanese media reported that another confirmed theft involving the group took place in July 2026. That specific incident occurred in Chuo, Tokyo, where the suspects allegedly targeted a safety deposit box. With at least 10 cases now linked to this Aichi-based group in 2026, police are working to determine the full extent of their criminal activities and whether other thefts remain unsolved.

Ongoing police investigation

The Metropolitan Police Department continues to investigate the connections between the arrested individuals and the various crime scenes identified throughout the year. By analyzing the digital evidence found on the suspects' devices and tracking the use of stolen vehicles, officials are attempting to map out the group's operational patterns. The focus remains on identifying any further victims and determining if the group has been involved in other high-value thefts across the Kanto region.

Glossary

• Aichi Prefecture — Aichi Prefecture is a prefecture of Japan located in the Chūbu region of Honshū. Nagoya serves as the capital and largest city of the prefecture.
• Tokyo — Tokyo, officially the Tokyo Metropolis, is the capital and most populous city of Japan. It serves as the country's economic center and is the seat of the Japanese government and the Emperor of Japan.