5 arrested in Nagoya for allegedly running unlicensed hostess bars, possibly earning 5.6 billion yen through overcharging.
In the downtown area of Nagoya, Nishiki, five men were arrested for operating a hostess bar without permission. The bar is believed to have been involved in so-called “overcharging” scams.
Those arrested on suspicion of violating the Entertainment Business Control Law include Kentaro Yashiro (27), whose residence and occupation are unknown, along with four other men.
According to police, Yashiro and the others are suspected of operating the hostess bar “Ciel” in Nishiki, Nagoya, from 2023 to last year without obtaining permission from the Aichi Prefectural Public Safety Commission.
The police have not disclosed the suspects’ responses to the allegations.
As of December last year, Yashiro is believed to have been managing over 30 hostess bars, including this one, and generating more than 5.6 billion yen in revenue through overcharging and similar practices.
Police are investigating the possibility that the profits served as a funding source for organized crime groups.
Nagoya
Nagoya is a major city in Japan’s Aichi Prefecture, historically significant as the birthplace of the powerful Oda and Tokugawa clans during the Sengoku period. Its most iconic landmark, Nagoya Castle, was originally built in 1612 by the Tokugawa shogunate, though it was largely destroyed in World War II and later reconstructed. Today, Nagoya is a thriving industrial and cultural hub, renowned for its automotive industry and traditional crafts like Shippo cloisonné enamel.
Nishiki
Nishiki, or Nishiki Market, is a historic covered market in Kyoto, Japan, often called “Kyoto’s Kitchen.” Its origins trace back over 400 years to the early Edo period, when it began as a wholesale fish market before evolving into a vibrant hub for local foods, crafts, and traditional ingredients. Today, it remains a cultural landmark where visitors can explore narrow lanes lined with over 100 shops and stalls.
Aichi Prefectural Public Safety Commission
The Aichi Prefectural Public Safety Commission is a government body in Aichi Prefecture, Japan, responsible for overseeing local police operations and ensuring public safety. Established under the Police Act of 1954, which reformed Japan’s post-war police system, it operates as a prefectural-level commission to maintain impartial oversight of law enforcement. The commission plays a key role in coordinating crime prevention, traffic safety, and emergency response efforts across the region.
Nishiki
Nishiki, also known as Nishiki Market, is a historic covered market street in Kyoto, Japan, often called “Kyoto’s Kitchen.” Its origins date back to the early 17th century, when it began as a fish market, and it later evolved into a vibrant hub for fresh seafood, local produce, and traditional Kyoto cuisine. Today, it remains a popular cultural site where visitors can experience the flavors and culinary heritage of the city.
Nagoya Castle
Nagoya Castle, originally built in 1612 by the Tokugawa shogunate, was a key stronghold and symbol of power in central Japan. The castle was largely destroyed during World War II air raids in 1945, but its main keep was reconstructed in 1959 using reinforced concrete. Today, it stands as a popular tourist attraction, known for its iconic golden shach
Nagoya Castle
Nagoya Castle, originally constructed in 1612 by the Tokugawa shogunate, served as a key military and political center in Japan’s Owari Province. The castle was famously known for its golden shachihoko (mythical fish-tiger) ornaments atop the main keep. Although largely destroyed during World War II, it was rebuilt in 1959 and remains a popular cultural landmark, with ongoing debates about fully restoring its original wooden structure.
Nishiki Market
Nishiki Market is a historic covered market located in the heart of Kyoto, Japan, often called “Kyoto’s Kitchen” for its wide array of fresh seafood, produce, and local specialties. Dating back to the early Edo period (around the 17th century), it began as a fish market and has evolved over 400 years into a vibrant shopping street with over a hundred shops and restaurants. Today, it remains a beloved cultural destination where visitors can experience Kyoto’s culinary traditions and daily food culture.
Aichi Prefectural Public Safety Commission
The Aichi Prefectural Public Safety Commission is a prefectural administrative body in Aichi Prefecture, Japan, responsible for overseeing police operations and ensuring public safety. Established under the Police Act of 1954, it operates independently from the police to maintain transparency and accountability. The commission plays a key role in approving police budgets, personnel decisions, and major policies to uphold law and order in the region.
Nagoya
Nagoya is a major city in Japan’s Aichi Prefecture, known for its industrial and cultural significance. Historically, it flourished as a castle town in the Edo period, centered around Nagoya Castle, which was built in 1612 by the Tokugawa clan. Today, the city blends modern innovation with traditional heritage, featuring sites like the Nagoya Castle reconstruction and the Atsuta Shrine.