Ex-Taxi Driver Arrested in Tokyo Over Years-Long Sexual Assault Allegations
Tokyo police have arrested a 54-year-old former taxi driver accused of drugging and sexually assaulting a female passenger—a case that has reportedly uncovered a disturbing pattern spanning over 15 years.
Shocking Discovery: 3,000 Videos of Alleged Assaults Found
According to reports from The Yomiuri Shimbun and Jiji Press, authorities discovered approximately 3,000 videos and images showing the suspect sexually assaulting nearly 50 women. These assaults allegedly took place in his taxi and at his residence, suggesting a long-running pattern of abuse.
The footage, retrieved from the suspect’s smartphone and electronic devices, dates as far back as 2008, raising serious questions about the scope and duration of his actions.
Victim Drugged With Sleeping Pills, Police Say
In the latest known incident, the man reportedly convinced a woman in her 20s to take sleeping pills under the guise of being concerned for her health. After she lost consciousness, he allegedly took her to his home, assaulted her, and filmed the act.
A Tokyo Metropolitan Police Department spokesperson confirmed to AFP that the suspect was arrested on Wednesday on charges of non-consensual sexual intercourse and violation of Japan’s law on the punishment of filming sexual parts without consent.
Traces of Drugs Found in Victim’s Hair
Japanese public broadcaster NHK revealed that investigators found traces of sleeping pills in the victim’s hair, corroborating her claims. The suspect reportedly used the same deceptive tactic with other victims, offering them spiked water and pills during rides.
Prior Arrests and Robbery Allegation
This is not the first time the suspect has been in police custody. In October 2024, he was arrested for allegedly drugging and robbing another woman of 40,000 yen (approximately $280). He was later released but re-arrested in December for a separate incident of alleged indecent assault.
Ongoing Investigation and Public Outcry
The disturbing case has sparked widespread outrage across Japan, with calls for tighter surveillance and safety protocols in the transportation sector. Authorities are continuing their investigation and have not ruled out further charges as they examine the extensive collection of recorded material.
