Six Men Arrested over Suspected Unlicensed Taxi Services
Japanese police have arrested six Pakistani nationals on suspicion of operating unlicensed taxi services for foreign tourists in the Kansai region and other popular destinations.
Asahi Travel Service Pvt Ltd
The joint investigation team of Hyogo and Kyoto prefectural police arrested the men on November 4, 2026, over alleged violations of the Road Transportation Act. Investigators suspect that they repeatedly transported tourists in private vehicles without the required authorisation and received payment for the journeys.
Tourists Taken to Popular Japanese Attractions
According to police, the group allegedly used several shared private cars to transport international visitors to well-known tourist destinations. These included Arashiyama in Kyoto, Himeji Castle in Hyogo Prefecture and the Atomic Bomb Dome in Hiroshima.
The tourists were reportedly from Europe and North America. Investigators are examining how the transport services were arranged and whether additional individuals were involved in the operation.
What Are ‘Shirotaku’ Taxis?
The suspected operation involved a practice known in Japan as shirotaku, which refers to the unauthorised use of private vehicles to provide paid passenger transport.
Licensed taxis in Japan generally carry green number plates, while ordinary private vehicles have white plates. Operating a paid passenger service without the necessary permits can violate Japan’s transport regulations.
Police believe the men shared multiple vehicles to carry out the suspected activities. Reports indicated that at least seven vehicles may have been used.
Police Investigate Possible Wider Involvement
The six men, all in their 20s, were suspected of carrying out the alleged activities between August and October 2026. Their statements to investigators have differed: one suspect admitted receiving payment for transporting passengers, while others denied that the journeys were paid services.
Police are continuing to investigate the group’s activities, how customers were recruited and whether other people helped arrange the trips.
Growing Attention on Unlicensed Tourist Transport
Japan has experienced strong demand for travel services as international tourism has increased. Authorities have been paying closer attention to unlicensed passenger transport to ensure that visitors use properly authorised services.
The case has also highlighted the importance of checking transport providers before booking private tours or airport transfers. Travellers are encouraged to use licensed taxis and recognised transport operators.
The arrest of six Pakistani nationals has brought renewed attention to suspected unlicensed taxi operations targeting foreign visitors in Japan. As the investigation continues, Hyogo and Kyoto police are examining whether the activity involved a wider network and how the services were organised.
