Two Women Arrested in Tokyo Over $650,000 “Pig-Butchering” Scam

The Metropolitan Police Department in Tokyo has arrested two women suspected of orchestrating a “pig-butchering scam,” through which they defrauded over 90 men out of more than $650,000.

• Modus Operandi:
  The women used dating apps to pose as romantic interests, gaining the trust of lonely men. One identified suspect, 27-year-old Shizuku Ida, impersonated a hostess bar worker and shared fabricated stories of a troubled past to elicit sympathy and financial support.

• Financial Gains:
  Money sent by the victims was funnelled into gambling at internet casinos and visits to male hostess bars—venues where patrons pay for companionship and conversation.

• Confession:
  Ida admitted to lying to her victims to gain their trust and using the funds on gambling and nightlife.

• Victim Impact:
  Despite never meeting her victims in person, Ida managed to deceive many men and amass significant sums through her manipulative tactics.

• Current Status:
  While two women were arrested, only Ida’s identity and confession have been publicly reported so far.