Tokyo police have arrested a 53-year-old Nigerian, Nwadiukwu Ikenna, on suspicion of persistent touting in the Japanese capital’s Kabukicho nightlife district.

According to the Tokyo Metropolitan Police Department on Friday, Ikenna allegedly approached a passer-by and grabbed the individual by the left hand on a street in the district during the early hours of Thursday, July 9, 2026.

Police said the suspect repeatedly attempted to lure the individual to an establishment, allegedly saying, “Why don’t you?” and “Don’t be scared. I love you.”

Investigators said Ikenna admitted to the solicitation and told authorities that he received a share of the money spent by customers he referred to an eating establishment.

The arrest comes amid growing complaints linked to touting activities in Kabukicho, one of Tokyo’s busiest entertainment and nightlife districts.

In the first half of 2026, police said they received 91 complaints from people who claimed they were taken to establishments by touts described by authorities as “African-looking” and were subsequently forced to pay exorbitant charges.

The figure has already surpassed the 77 complaints recorded throughout the whole of 2025.

Police said most of the complainants during the six-month period were foreign tourists, with total reported losses amounting to about 100 million yen.

Among the reported cases was that of an Australian tourist who claimed losses of approximately four million yen. (Saturday PUNCH, excluding headline)

Update news