Japan Carries Out Execution of Notorious Criminal: What You Need to Know

On Friday, Japan executed Takahiro Shiraishi, known as the “Twitter killer.” This marked Japan’s first death penalty case since 2022. Shiraishi murdered and dismembered nine people, mostly women, whom he met through the platform X.

Shiraishi preyed on individuals expressing suicidal thoughts. He promised to help them, even suggesting he would die with them. His Twitter bio stated, “I want to help people who are really in pain. Please DM me anytime.”

When police searched his apartment, they discovered dismembered bodies hidden in boxes and coolers, leading to intense media coverage and shock across society. Justice Minister Keisuke Suzuki called Shiraishi’s crimes heinous, involving robbery, rape, and murder. “The dignity of the victims was trampled upon,” a judge remarked, emphasizing how he targeted vulnerable individuals.

Shiraishi’s execution highlights Japan’s ongoing use of capital punishment. Japan and the U.S. are the only G7 countries still utilizing this practice. Research shows strong public support for the death penalty in Japan, despite ongoing debates about its morality and effectiveness. In 2022, there was only one execution, a significant drop from previous years.

Since his sentencing in 2020, many have questioned whether Shiraishi should have received a lighter sentence due to the circumstances surrounding his victims. His defense argued they consented to die, but the court found his actions brutal and calculated. The case has stirred discussions about mental health support in Japan, where social stigma often prevents open dialogue about such issues.

As of now, around 100 prisoners await execution in Japan, often kept in solitary confinement for years. This prolonged uncertainty faces criticism for the lack of transparency in the system.

This event serves as a grim reminder of the complexities surrounding mental health and justice. It also prompts a reflection on the societal responsibilities to better support those who are vulnerable and in crisis.



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Death Penalty, Japan, Execution