OSAKA - An 18-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of obstructing police operations in Osaka after allegedly using a social media account called Shorinji Racing to post messages suggesting plans for reckless driving, prompting officers to increase patrols and security measures.
Osaka Prefectural Police said the suspect, whose address and occupation are unknown, allegedly posted messages in October 2026, including one declaring that he would "make history," suggesting that dangerous driving activities were being planned.
Police believe the posts were intended to provoke a response from authorities, forcing officers to conduct precautionary operations and interfering with their regular duties.
Since September 2026, Osaka Prefecture has experienced a series of nuisance incidents involving people calling the emergency police number 110 and shouting "Shorinji," among other disruptive acts.
Around 50 people have been arrested or taken into police custody for guidance in connection with these incidents. Some reportedly told investigators that they had carried out the pranks after seeing posts on social media.
Investigators suspect the 18-year-old operated four separate social media accounts and created a points system that assigned scores to different types of nuisance behavior, potentially encouraging others to participate.
The suspect has denied the allegations, telling investigators, "That is not true."
Police are examining whether he was involved in organizing or encouraging the broader series of incidents that have disrupted emergency police services across Osaka since September.
Source: YOMIURI
