Society

Fortune-Teller Accused of Defrauding 70 People Out of 2 Billion Yen

FUKUOKA, Sep 06 (News On Japan) - A self-proclaimed fortune-teller has been arrested on suspicion of fraud after luring people into false investment schemes, including a case in which she allegedly swindled 10 million yen from a woman she befriended as a fellow kindergarten mother.

Police arrested Noriko Tasai, 51, on charges of defrauding a 52-year-old acquaintance in Fukuoka City in 2018. Investigators allege Tasai told the woman that placing crystals into building foundations would enhance feng shui and increase property value, promising dividends and the return of principal investment.

FNN had interviewed the victim and her family in May 2025. The victim said many acquaintances praised Tasai, saying things like, "When I went to her for fortune-telling, good things happened." She had met Tasai through her child’s kindergarten and was offered free fortune-telling sessions and advice.

After two years of knowing each other, Tasai allegedly told her, "Top-level people always use astrology, the Four Pillars of Destiny, and feng shui. If you invest even hundreds of thousands of yen, your fortune will improve." Trusting Tasai, the woman believed the scheme. Her husband explained, "Because it was a family friendship, we never thought she would lie."

Tasai’s luxurious lifestyle further reinforced their trust. According to the woman, she would enter luxury brand stores and immediately say, "I’ll take this, I’ll take this," in a manner compared to "Michael Jackson’s old shopping style."

Ultimately, the victim handed over more than 100 million yen to Tasai.

In questioning, Tasai admitted receiving the money but denied wrongdoing, saying, "I didn’t intend to lie."

Police suspect Tasai defrauded about 70 people of a combined 2 billion yen through similar schemes and are continuing to question other victims as they work to uncover the full scope of the case.

Source: FNN

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