Japan’s National Police Agency (NPA) has introduced new guidelines to help drug stores prevent shoplifting. This decision comes after a rise in thefts, especially by foreign suspects, which has led to significant financial losses. The NPA is encouraging drug stores to improve security by increasing patrols, installing more cameras, and taking other preventive steps. These guidelines have been shared with the Japan Association of Chain Drug Stores, making it the first time the NPA has issued such specific instructions for a particular business sector.
Why Is Shoplifting a Major Concern?
Shoplifting has become a growing problem in Japan, particularly in drug stores. Many of these stores sell valuable items such as cosmetics and medicines, which are often targeted by thieves. The NPA has reported a sharp rise in shoplifting cases, with a total of 13,754 incidents recorded between January and November last year. These thefts not only affect the businesses financially but also create security concerns for store employees and customers.
Higher Losses Linked to Foreign Suspects
One of the key findings in the NPA’s investigation was that cases involving foreign suspects led to much higher financial losses than those involving Japanese suspects. Over the past three years, the average loss per case involving foreign suspects was ¥88,531, while for Japanese suspects, it was only ¥10,774. The NPA also found that some foreign criminals were entering Japan under the pretense of tourism but were actually involved in organized shoplifting activities. In many cases, these groups worked together, with some individuals acting as lookouts while others stole the items.
What Measures Are Being Taken?
To tackle this issue, the NPA has recommended several security measures for drug stores. These measures aim to prevent shoplifting while also ensuring that employees and customers feel safe. Some of the key recommendations include:
- More Frequent Employee Patrols – Store employees should regularly walk around the store to monitor customer behavior. This presence can discourage potential thieves from stealing.
- Broadcasting Warnings in Foreign Languages – Since many shoplifting cases involve foreign suspects, the NPA suggests that stores play audio warnings in multiple languages. This can serve as a deterrent for non-Japanese-speaking individuals who may be planning to steal.
- Installing More Security Cameras – Increasing the number of security cameras can help store staff monitor suspicious activity and provide evidence if a theft occurs.
- Using Anti-Theft Mirrors – Placing mirrors in strategic locations can help employees and security staff keep an eye on hard-to-see areas of the store.
- Displaying Empty Packages for Expensive Items – Instead of placing real products on the shelves, drug stores are encouraged to display empty packages of high-value items like cosmetics and medicine. Customers will need to ask for these items at the counter, reducing the chances of theft.
Why Are Drug Stores Targeted?
Drug stores are an easy target for shoplifters because they sell small, high-value items that can be easily hidden and resold. Products such as cosmetics, dietary supplements, and medicines are in high demand, making them attractive to thieves. Some criminals steal these products to sell them illegally in Japan, while others smuggle them out of the country.
Unlike department stores, drug stores often have fewer security personnel, making it easier for shoplifters to steal without getting caught. This is why the NPA is pushing for better security measures in these stores.
How Will These Measures Help?
The NPA believes that implementing these measures will make shoplifting more difficult and less appealing for criminals. By increasing employee patrols and security cameras, stores can spot suspicious behavior before a theft happens. Broadcasting warnings in foreign languages sends a clear message that theft will not be tolerated. Additionally, using anti-theft mirrors and empty packaging will reduce opportunities for shoplifters to take products without being noticed.
Cooperation Between Drug Stores and the Police
The NPA has worked closely with the Japan Association of Chain Drug Stores to ensure that these new guidelines are effectively communicated to businesses across the country. On January 28, the NPA formally delivered copies of the guidelines to the association.
Drug store operators are expected to follow these recommendations and take additional precautions as needed. The police will continue to monitor shoplifting trends and may introduce further measures if necessary.
Public Awareness and Responsibility
While these security measures will help prevent shoplifting, public awareness is also important. Customers can play a role by reporting suspicious activity to store employees. Employees should be trained to handle theft incidents safely and report them to the authorities.
Shoplifting is not just a problem for businesses—it affects the entire community. When stores suffer financial losses, they may increase prices or reduce services, impacting all customers. By working together, the police, businesses, and the public can help reduce theft and create a safer shopping environment.
Looking Ahead
The introduction of these guidelines marks a significant step in Japan’s efforts to combat shoplifting. However, continued cooperation between businesses, law enforcement, and the public will be necessary to achieve lasting results. The NPA will likely review the effectiveness of these measures and make adjustments as needed.
In the future, Japan may also explore additional strategies, such as using artificial intelligence (AI) for theft detection or increasing penalties for repeat offenders. For now, the focus remains on improving security in drug stores and reducing financial losses from shoplifting.
