A 43-year-old man has been arrested for allegedly committing a scam known as “atariya” where he intentionally collides with vehicles to fraudulently obtain settlement money. The suspect, Hiroki Minegawa, reportedly crashed his bicycle into a taxi in Tokyo’s Shinjuku Ward last year and coerced the 60-something driver into giving him ¥5,000 as a settlement. According to the Tokyo Metropolitan Police, Minegawa suggested to the driver to settle the matter on the spot to avoid any demerit points. During questioning, Minegawa stated he would not speak until his lawyer was present. The police have identified at least 99 similar incidents in the Shinjuku area and are investigating Minegawa’s involvement, supported by dashcam footage showing a man resembling him.
by MagazineKey4532