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TOKYO — A late-night robbery near a major train hub in central Tokyo results in the theft of millions of dollars in cash, an incident that stands out in a city known for low crime.
Police say three suspects carry out the heist on a busy street close to Ueno Station, a popular area for both commuters and tourists.
Authorities report that the robbers use pepper spray to overpower their targets before seizing several suitcases.
The incident occurs around 9:30 p.m. on Thursday, according to a spokesperson from the Tokyo Metropolitan Police, who speaks on condition of anonymity.
Local media identify the victims as a group of five people, a mix of Chinese and Japanese nationals.
Reports say the group is in the process of loading luggage containing about 420 million yen, or roughly $2.7 million, into a vehicle when the attack happens.
Investigators say the reason the group is transporting such a large amount of cash remains unclear, and the suspects are still at large.