Osaka Police Use Mirrors to Prevent Escalator Voyeurism

OSAKA, Jun 19 (News On Japan) - As temperatures rise and more skin is exposed, the incidence of voyeurism tends to increase. To combat this, the Osaka Prefectural Police have devised an innovative strategy using a simple yet effective tool -- mirrors.

At 1 a.m. in a commercial facility in Namba, Osaka, police officers were seen installing something on the escalators.

"This is a special tactic to prevent voyeurism," reported Tatsuya Izumi.

The item being installed? Mirrors.

In the sweltering heat, women often wear lighter clothing, making them potential targets for voyeurism. However, these mirrors have proven to be a powerful deterrent.

Psychologically, people tend to look into mirrors when they see them. By placing mirrors at angles that provide a clear view of the space behind, women on escalators become more aware of their surroundings, potentially deterring would-be offenders.

"By catching a glimpse of themselves in the mirror, women can unconsciously monitor their rear, making it less likely for offenders to act," explained Izumi. "The offender might feel they are being watched and abandon their attempt."

Since implementing this strategy in a commercial facility in Umeda last year, the number of women who appear more vigilant about their surroundings has tripled.

A woman who saw herself in one of these mirrors commented, "If I can see what's happening behind me, I can understand what people are doing, which is reassuring."

Kenichi Hirai, head of the Community Safety Division at the Minami Police Station, emphasized the importance of vigilance. "When ascending to the surface, it's crucial to occasionally glance back. Even while on the escalator, it’s essential to be aware of any suspicious individuals behind you."

Going forward, the Osaka Prefectural Police plan to expand the installation of mirrors to other busy stations and commercial facilities.

Source: YOMIURI

Shimadzu Unveils World's First Optical Lattice Clock

Shimadzu Corporation has launched the world's first optical lattice clock, which measures time using the oscillation frequency of atoms trapped by lasers. The clock boasts an unparalleled accuracy, with an error of just one second over 10 billion years.

Tohoku Shinkansen Cars Unexpectedly Detach

A Tohoku Shinkansen train came to an unexpected stop between Ueno and Omiya on March 6th after its coupled cars separated. The incident occurred around 11:30 a.m. on the Hayabusa-Komachi No. 21 train.

Japan to Release Rice Reserves as Prices Surge Past 5,000 Yen for 5kg

Japan’s rice prices have been steadily climbing, with the cost of a 5-kilogram bag rising from 2,430 to 3,297 yen last year and further increasing to 3,949 yen this year, putting pressure on household budgets. To curb these rising prices, the government has decided to release its rice reserves.

Gunkanjima Faces Collapse Risk as Buildings Deteriorate

The historic buildings of Hashima Island, commonly known as Gunkanjima, are facing a risk of collapse due to ongoing deterioration, it was revealed on March 3rd. The island, part of the "Sites of Japan's Meiji Industrial Revolution," a UNESCO World Heritage site that marks its 10th anniversary this summer, has seen its structures degrade significantly over time.

Nara's Omizutori Fire Ritual Marks 1,274 Year

The annual Shunie ceremony, commonly known as Omizutori, has begun at Todai-ji Temple in Nara. Carrying large torches, attendants lit the way as monks, known as the Rengyoshu, slowly ascended the steps of Nigatsudo Hall.

MEDIA CHANNELS

MORE Society NEWS

Free ‘Manhole Cards’ Resold for Thousands, Angering Collectors

A surge in the resale of 'Manhole Cards,' collectible cards featuring designs of local manhole covers distributed for free by municipalities, has angered collectors and local governments. Some cards are being resold for as much as 100,000 yen, prompting concerns over fairness and the original intent behind the initiative.

Abandoned Hospital Becomes Haunting Ground, Alarming Residents

An abandoned hospital in Itoigawa City, Niigata Prefecture, has become a well-known "haunted spot," drawing unwanted attention and raising concerns among local residents. Fresh footprints in the snow indicate frequent trespassing, despite the lack of any official visitors.