CHIBA, Jul 23 (News On Japan) - In the first court appearance, the man known as the 'hyokkori-otoko,' or the 'surprise cyclist,' who was frequently seen darting in front of oncoming vehicles across Chiba Prefecture, claimed he had no intention of obstructing traffic.
A bicycle appearing suddenly in front of oncoming cars has been a recurring sight in Chiba Prefecture since the beginning of 2024.
In January 2024, a camera in Abiko City captured the cyclist dashing in front of a truck without hesitation. By April, the cyclist was spotted again in Kashiwa City, this time leaping out in front of a bus, causing it to come to an abrupt halt.
The first trial for the defendant, Akihiko Narushima, 37, accused of obstructing traffic by riding his bicycle into the path of oncoming vehicles, was held on 22 July.
Narushima was arrested in May 2024. Footage from that time shows him walking sluggishly with his head down.
On July 22nd, he appeared in court wearing a suit, his hair tied back.
Narushima was also caught on camera five years ago, in 2019, engaging in dangerous cycling in Okegawa City, Saitama Prefecture.
From the beginning of 2024, Narushima resumed his reckless behavior. What was said during his first trial?
When asked if the charges were accurate, Narushima denied the allegations, stating, "It says I was going 19 km/h, but I wasn't going that fast," and "I wasn't driving in a way that would harm others. I had no intention of obstructing traffic."
However, the prosecution argued that Narushima had repeatedly engaged in such dangerous cycling behavior, both before and after the alleged incidents.
Source: FNN
