# Criminal exploitation trends in Japan > Developing situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/criminal-exploitation-trends-in-japan > Updated: 2026-10-17T04:26:49.000Z. Sources: 4. Developments: 2. Japanese authorities have issued warnings regarding evolving criminal tactics involving recruitment and property exploitation. Initially, the National Police Agency focused on “dark part-time jobs” (yami baito), where individuals are recruited via high-paying advertisements to commit crimes like robbery and special fraud. Officials noted a trend of youths participating for financial gain, often being treated as “disposable pawns” by criminal organizations. Statistics indicated over 12,000 apprehensions in the past year, including more than 1,300 minors. Subsequent warnings expanded to include the exploitation of residential properties. Authorities alerted the public that vacant houses and rental units are being used as hubs to receive illicit goods, such as smuggled drugs and proceeds from special fraud. Criminals have been observed using fake nameplates or exploiting spare keys to gain entry. Additionally, police reported specific incidents of residential burglary, such as a theft in Saitama Prefecture where intruders entered a home through an unlocked window. ## Timeline ### 2026-10-17: Japan police warn of criminal exploitation of vacant houses and residential burglaries Japanese police are warning against the use of vacant houses by criminal groups for fraud and drug smuggling, following reports of residential burglaries in Saitama. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/japan-police-warn-of-criminal-exploitation-of-vacant-houses-and-residential-burglaries ### 2026-10-04: Japan police warn of risks in criminal “dark part-time jobs” Japanese authorities warn against “dark part-time jobs,” noting that recruits are treated as disposable pawns in robberies and fraud, often facing severe prison sentences regardless of age. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/japan-police-warn-of-risks-in-criminal-dark-part-time-jobs --- Cite as: Criminal exploitation trends in Japan. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/criminal-exploitation-trends-in-japan