Tokyo Clamps Down on Big Motor over Tree Poisoning

TOKYO, Jan 24 (News On Japan) - The Tokyo Metropolitan Government filed a complaint with Tokyo police on Tuesday, suspecting vandalism at seven locations where street trees in front of "Big Motor" used car dealerships were found withered due to the detection of herbicides.

The issue with the street trees in front of "Big Motor" came to light when an investigation revealed the presence of herbicide components and signs of felling in front of nine stores along the metropolitan road.

In September last year, the government filed a damage report on suspicion of vandalism. Subsequent police investigations deemed it difficult to specify criminal facts at two locations, but the complaint was accepted on Tuesday for the remaining seven locations, with the government stating, "As the manager of the property of Tokyo residents, we seek punishment."

The government has already issued an order to "Big Motor" to pay approximately 16 million yen for restoration costs and other expenses, which has been paid. A representative of the metropolitan government stated, "We have taken the necessary measures as the manager of the property of Tokyo residents. We will fully cooperate with the police investigation."

Source: NHK

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