Saitama police arrest Vietnamese man in murder of 91-year-old woman

Police in Saitama Prefecture arrested a 33‑year‑old Vietnamese man after the body of 91‑year‑old Kinuko Maruyama was discovered in a forest in the Asu area of Hanno city. Maruyama was reported missing by her son on July 31, prompting a search that revealed her car missing from her home. The vehicle was later found in Fujimi city, where the driver fled after a collision and was apprehended after breaking into a house. The suspect hinted at having killed Maruyama and disposing of her body. Authorities are treating the case as homicide and continue their investigation.

The arrest follows a coordinated police effort that linked the missing car, the suspect’s flight, and the discovery of the victim’s remains, highlighting concerns over violent crime involving foreign nationals in Japan.