Arrest Warrants Issued for Two Suspected Masterminds in Vietnam Behind Mass Shoplifting Ring
This article organizes publicly available information into a single account. Where it describes an arrest or an ongoing investigation, that reflects only one stage of criminal procedure and does not mean guilt has been established (the presumption of innocence applies). We will update this article as new information becomes available, including the outcome of prosecution, non-prosecution, or trial. This article is not intended to unfairly disparage any individual, group, nationality, ethnicity, or belief, and aims to provide objective, fact-based information.
A joint investigation headquarters that includes the Metropolitan Police Department has obtained arrest warrants for a man and woman believed to be masterminds located in Vietnam, in connection with a theft ring accused of shoplifting large quantities of high-end cosmetics and other goods from drugstores in Japan and sending them back to Vietnam.
As the alleged masterminds are outside Japan, securing custody of them is considered difficult, and uncovering the full picture of organized crime by this international theft ring will be the focus going forward. Current status: The suspected masterminds abroad remain unapprehended. This article will be updated as further reporting becomes available.
Even when an arrest warrant is issued for a suspect located abroad, securing custody is said to be difficult because Japan and Vietnam have no extradition treaty. Procedures such as an international manhunt notice through the International Criminal Police Organization (ICPO/Interpol) may be pursued.