Woman arrested after using pepper spray on Tokyo’s Yamanote train during dispute over priority seats

TOKYO – A woman was arrested after releasing pepper spray inside a train in central Tokyo on Oct 20 during a quarrel over priority seating, injuring two men, the police said.

The woman, in her 30s, got into an argument with a passenger who admonished her for shoving her way to the specially designated section and sitting down, according to the police.

Two male passengers, both in their 60s, sustained minor injuries after she unleashed the spray in their direction. The incident occurred at around 7.45pm local time in a Yamanote loop line train.

Priority seats are intended for passengers in need, including the elderly, people with disabilities, pregnant women and those with babies.

The woman admitted to the charges, saying she carried the pepper spray for protection. KYODO

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