A notorious street gang in central Japan has disbanded in a rare public ceremony held at a police station, a symbolic move that officials say could help break the cycle of youth violence – though some remain sceptical it will lead to lasting change.
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About 30 members of the gang known as the Lucifers gathered on Sunday at Atsuta Police Station in Aichi prefecture, where they formally announced the group’s dissolution after nearly three decades of notoriety in Nagoya’s criminal underworld.
The event was attended by gang members ranging in age from teenagers to men in their 50s, who stood in rows inside a police hall to deliver their pledge to “never again cause trouble or distress” as well as to never re-establish the organisation.
Police chief Masaki Suzuki, accepting the declaration, offered a message of encouragement. “I officially accept the declaration of disbandment of the Lucifers today,” he said, according to Japanese broadcaster CBC News. “I hope each of you will strive in your respective paths, whether in work or studies.”
Authorities said they welcomed the gesture but would continue to verify members’ reintegration through monitoring and outreach support. Police plan to offer vocational training and social assistance, particularly to the younger members.
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The dissolution comes in the wake of intensified law enforcement pressure on the group, including the arrest of 25 members since May. The gang’s 47-year-old leader, Daisaku Odagiri, is currently on trial for assault, and had submitted a formal notice of disbandment to authorities late last year, according to SoraNews24.