Key Facts
• On July 24, 2025, Ryotaro Sugi (80) attended the SOS47 appointment ceremony.
• SOS47, launched in 2018, aims to combat fraud under the National Police Agency.
• Pianist Reiko Akutagawa (32) and musician Takeshi Maeda joined as new members.
• Akutagawa revealed losing millions of yen to a sophisticated fraud scheme in May 2025.
• Fraud involved fake police and prosecutors using LINE and video calls.
• Japan’s fraud losses in 2024 totaled ¥71.88 billion, up ¥26.6 billion from 2023.
• Sugi emphasized unity to prevent further victims and proposed cutting calls about money.
• Akutagawa expressed determination to prevent others from falling victim to fraud.
• SOS47 now includes 16 individuals and six idol groups, including Nogizaka46.
• Police clarified that LINE is never used for interrogations or arrest warrants.
Summary
Ryotaro Sugi, an 80-year-old singer and actor, joined the National Police Agency’s SOS47 project on July 24, 2025, to combat rising fraud cases. Pianist Reiko Akutagawa and musician Takeshi Maeda were also appointed as new members. Akutagawa shared her experience of losing millions of yen in a sophisticated scam involving fake police and prosecutors using LINE and video calls. Japan’s fraud losses in 2024 reached ¥71.88 billion, a significant increase from the previous year. Sugi called for unity to prevent further victims and advised cutting calls involving money. SOS47, formed in 2018, now includes 16 individuals and six idol groups, with a focus on leveraging artistic expression to raise awareness. Police officials reiterated that LINE is never used for official interrogations or arrest warrants.
