Key Facts
• Former minister Sanae Takaichi addressed illegal Chinese-made toy guns on social media.
• Since June 2022, police identified 17 types of toy guns with lethal capabilities.
• Approximately 1,000 units of 16 types were recovered, leading to 33 arrests.
• A 17th type, found in May 2025, has a recovery deadline of December 31, 2025.
• Of 15,800 units of the 17th type, 2,600 have been recovered so far.
• Police monitor online sales and collaborate with customs to prevent imports.
• Requests for export prevention were made to Chinese authorities via ICPO.
• Takaichi warned about potential 3D-printed guns, which are regulated under Japan’s firearm laws.
• She emphasized public awareness and continued efforts for societal safety.
Summary
Sanae Takaichi, former Minister of Economic Security, raised alarms about the circulation of illegal Chinese-made toy guns with lethal capabilities in Japan. Since June 2022, authorities have identified 17 types of such guns, recovering nearly all of the 1,000 units from 16 types and making 33 arrests. A 17th type, discovered in May 2025, has a recovery deadline of December 31, 2025, with 2,600 of 15,800 units already retrieved. Takaichi highlighted police efforts to monitor online sales, collaborate with customs, and engage Chinese authorities through ICPO to prevent exports. She also warned about the risks of 3D-printed firearms, urging public vigilance and adherence to Japan’s firearm laws. Takaichi reaffirmed her commitment to ensuring societal safety as head of the Liberal Democratic Party’s Public Safety and Cybercrime Countermeasures Committee.
