Gunma Man Re‑Arrested for Robbery Murder After Dismembered Body Found in Tonegawa

Police in Gunma prefecture have decided to re‑arrest 50‑year‑old factory worker Newai Masanao on robbery murder charges. Earlier this year, Newai killed his 59‑year‑old acquaintance Kobuchi Kazunori, stole the victim’s cash card and withdrew ¥240,000 from an ATM, and then dismembered the body. The severed remains were discovered on the banks of the Tonegawa River in Isesaki City. Investigators note the two men had previously worked together and are probing a possible dispute between them.

The re‑arrest follows the original arrest and indictment for the homicide and body‑dismemberment. Authorities continue to examine the motive behind the violent robbery and the disposal of the victim’s remains.