Photo/Illutration (Note: 2024 figure excludes December cases)

Amid the shoplifting epidemic at drugstores across Japan, police have released guidelines aimed at eradicating the organized theft rings, particularly those involving foreign groups. 

This is the first set of instructions of its kind, which includes measures such as broadcasting warnings in multiple languages within stores.

Other recommendations include enhanced in-store surveillance, prompt reporting to police and displaying high-theft items such as pharmaceuticals and cosmetics in empty boxes.

The National Police Agency shared the guidelines last month with nearly 400 members of the Japan Association of Chain Drug Stores.

According to the NPA, there were 13,754 reported shoplifting incidents at drugstores nationwide between January and November of last year.

The figure has increased significantly from the 8,971 cases reported in 2004, when related statistic-keeping started.

More than 80 percent of shoplifters are Japanese, with 19,423 Japanese nationals involved in the thefts between 2021 and 2023, compared with 3,938 foreign suspects from the same period.

However, the average losses per incident involving foreign suspects was significantly higher–78,936 yen ($519), compared to 10,774 yen for Japanese offenders.

Moreover, foreign nationals visiting Japan, rather than residing there, had an even higher average theft amount, 88,531 yen.

The NPA notes that foreign groups involved in organized theft rings often have clearly defined roles, such as one member distracting a store employee while another steals items.

In some cases, thieves have sent stolen goods in bulk back to their home countries. The agency believes this modus operandi suggests a growing pattern of organized, cross-border shoplifting operations.

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