This photo shows fire engines gathered in front of the Shibuya Hikarie commercial complex in Tokyo on Aug. 23, 2025, after a substance believed to be pepper spray was released. (Kyodo)
A man was arrested Saturday for allegedly unleashing a substance believed to be pepper spray in Tokyo’s bustling Shibuya district, injuring 18 people, police said.
The injured, including a newborn, suffered irritation to their eyes and throats, according to authorities.
The suspect, a 46-year-old Tokyo resident, admitted to the allegations, saying that he discharged spray toward a man in his 40s after they bumped into each other on the bench, according to investigators and police.
A report came in around 1:30 p.m. that a substance resembling pepper spray was released on the seventh floor of the high-rise Shibuya Hikarie commercial complex, which houses shops, offices, restaurants and cultural facilities.
Police officers found the suspect on the first floor of the complex about 15 minutes after the emergency call.
AloJapan.com