Two Vietnamese Nationals Arrested Over Breaking Into Vacant House From Adjacent Demolition Site in Tokyo's Bunkyo Ward
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.
The Metropolitan Police Department announced by October 1, 2026 that it had arrested Pham Van Linh, 24, and Vo The Hoang, 27, both Vietnamese nationals working in demolition, on suspicion of trespassing and theft. According to ABEMA TIMES, the two are accused of breaking into a vacant house in Bunkyo Ward, Tokyo, in July 2026 in an attempt to steal valuables.
While working at a demolition site, the pair are believed to have learned that the second floor of an adjacent building was vacant, crossed over from the second floor of the building they were demolishing, and smashed a window to enter. Police believe they repeatedly targeted vacant houses using the same method and are investigating further. Under questioning, Pham reportedly admitted to the allegations, saying "that is correct," while Vo denied them, saying "I didn't do it."
Current status: The number of additional offenses, the total value of items stolen, and whether the case will be referred for prosecution remain unclear as of this writing. This article will be updated as further details emerge.
Editorial Perspective
No decision on indictment has been made at this stage, so this article reflects information from the investigative phase. An arrest is only one step in criminal procedure and does not establish guilt (the presumption of innocence). According to National Police Agency and Ministry of Justice statistics, the number of Penal Code cases involving foreign nationals visiting Japan has risen for two consecutive years since 2023, but remains below its mid-2000s peak (related article). A single case does not necessarily reflect the broader statistical trend; further developments are worth watching.