A 53-year-old Nigerian, Nwadiukwu Ikenna, has been arrested by the Tokyo Metropolitan Police on allegations of persistent touting in Kabukicho, one of Japan’s busiest entertainment districts.
Japanese authorities said the suspect was apprehended after allegedly approaching a passer-by in the early hours of Thursday and attempting to lure the individual into a nightlife establishment.
According to police, Ikenna allegedly grabbed the person by the left hand while repeatedly urging the individual to follow him, reportedly saying, “Why don’t you?” and “Don’t be scared. I love you.”
Investigators said the suspect admitted engaging in the solicitation, adding that he disclosed he received a commission from money spent by customers he referred to an eating establishment.
The arrest comes as authorities intensify efforts to tackle touting activities in Kabukicho following a rise in complaints involving foreign visitors.
Police said they received 91 complaints in the first half of 2026 from people who alleged they were taken to entertainment venues by touts described as “African-looking” before being forced to pay exorbitant bills.
The figure has already exceeded the 77 complaints recorded throughout the whole of 2025.
Authorities added that most of the complainants were foreign tourists, with total reported financial losses estimated at about ¥100 million.
Among the cases cited by investigators was that of an Australian tourist who reportedly lost approximately ¥4 million after being lured into one of the establishments.
Tokyo police said investigations into the activities of touts operating in the district are ongoing.
