Crime in Akihabara is no game

A report released earlier this month by the Metropolitan Police Department found that crime is rising in innovative and trendy Akihabara. Bag thefts, shoplifting, and sales of restricted goods and illegal services have reached a worrying level that cannot be ignored. It is hoped that, in this case, Akihabara is not a bellwether of a broader, undesirable social direction. In the real world, there is no "GAME OVER" that lets you start back at the beginning.

Recently, many victims unwisely have entered questionable shops or participated in illegal activities. Other victims have been robbed while not paying attention to their bags, fell asleep in the wrong place or were tricked or bullied out of money. Less sympathy may go out to those who seemed complicit in their own victimization, but that does not make it acceptable. Due to embarrassment or a sense of futility, the actual number of incidents is most likely under-reported.

The sad-luck otaku and other victims may at least serve as a canary in the coal mine, warning the country about how easily such crimes can occur. Akihabara regulars who spend time, and lots of money, on techie shopping would appear to be disadvantaged by the traits of their own stereotype — lost in a fantasy world while robbed in the real world. From the point of view of criminals — including pickpockets, burglars and extortionists — not only Akihabara but also most of Japan must seem like an environment of easy pickings. What is happening in Akihabara can happen any place in the country.

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