On May 25, 2026, around 20 individuals were injured at a luxury shopping complex in central Tokyo. The incident occurred when a man sprayed a substance inside the building, according to police and fire department officials.
Tokyo police spokesperson Yusuke Koide informed the French news agency AFP that the man targeted an ATM on the ground floor of the complex. Witnesses reported a noticeable odor in the area, prompting a response from emergency services.
The street in front of the Ginza mall, located in a popular shopping district, was cordoned off, and fire trucks were positioned along the road. Despite the blockade, shoppers could access the building through side entrances.
An AFP reporter on the scene observed two people being placed onto stretchers and transported to ambulances. Firefighters equipped with hazmat suits helped evacuate and assess individuals from the mall.
Public broadcaster NHK reported that the injuries sustained appeared to be minor. A 70-year-old woman present described experiencing throat irritation as she approached the ATM. She initially suspected a fire but was soon affected by the substance.
Authorities are investigating the cause of the incident. Emergency personnel were visible in front of the Ginza 6 Shopping Center, assessing the situation.
“Once I went into the ATM corner, my throat felt scratchy, almost numb,” the woman shared.
Japan is known for its low crime rates, though occasional violent incidents do occur. The assassination of former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe in 2022 remains a notable exception. Earlier this year, a stabbing attack in a factory injured 14, alongside another incident involving the spray of an unspecified liquid.
The country continues to be wary of similar incidents, recalling the deadly subway attack by the Aum Shinrikyo cult in the 1990s. On March 20, 1995, the group released sarin nerve gas into commuter trains, resulting in 14 fatalities and over 5,800 injuries.
Japan remains vigilant in maintaining public safety, balancing a historically peaceful society with preparedness for unforeseen threats.