Yuki Murai, a 27-year-old office worker in Tokyo, was known for being quiet and reserved at work.
About six months ago, a new administrative assistant joined Murai’s company. Murai noticed his new colleague, who had a sweet demeanor, and began messaging her frequently, asking about her lunch, favorite animals, and other personal matters. She politely replied a few times but then stopped responding.
"I felt like she was playing with me, even intentionally ignoring me," Murai later told police.
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Yuki Murai was arrested by police for trespassing and theft. Photo: Weixin |
Yuki Murai was arrested by police for trespassing and theft. Photo: Weixin
One evening, while working late and noticing his colleague was away from her desk, Murai searched her bag, found her house key, and photographed it, noting the manufacturer and key code.
He then found an online key duplication service and ordered a copy. The shop advertised itself as "highly skilled" and didn't inquire about the reason for the duplication.
Murai began observing his colleague's routine and discovered she often went jogging in the evenings. He used these opportunities to sneak into her apartment, exploring her bedroom, living room, and bathroom.
Over the next few months, Murai broke into her apartment at least 20 times, stealing clothes as "souvenirs." He also took over 300 photos with his phone, capturing images of her inside the apartment, clothes on the sofa, and even watermarks on the bathroom mirror.
The woman grew suspicious after noticing her clothes had been moved and finding unfamiliar footprints on the floor. She reported the incidents to the police and installed hidden cameras in her apartment, which ultimately revealed the perpetrator.
According to Asahi Shimbun, Murai stole six items during his last break-in, including clothes, a bag, and a surveillance camera, worth approximately 15,000 JPY (USD 105).
Murai claimed he never intended to harm the victim: "I just wanted her to feel my presence. She never replied to my messages," he said.
On 17/6, the Tokyo Metropolitan Police Department announced Murai's arrest on suspicion of trespassing and theft.
The incident sparked outrage on Japanese social media, with some suggesting the government should tighten regulations on key duplication services to mitigate such risks.
Tue Anh (Theo SCMP)
