Japan carries out execution by hanging of individual convicted of murdering nine people, known as the “Twitter killer.”

Japan has recently executed Takahiro Shiraishi, a man convicted of the disturbing murders of nine individuals, including eight women. This execution marks the first in nearly three years in the country, highlighting Japan’s ongoing stance on capital punishment amidst rising discussions on its ethical implications.

Shiraishi, who garnered the infamous nickname “Twitter killer,” committed these crimes in 2017 after interacting with his victims through social media. He lured individuals who were contemplating suicide by offering assistance in a deeply misguided bid to alleviate their suffering. Media reports reveal that he concealed dismembered body parts within his cramped apartment in Zama, Kanagawa, a fact that shocked and horrified the public.

Japanese Justice Minister Keisuke Suzuki, who authorized the execution, emphasized that the decision was made following a thorough review of the case. He noted that Shiraishi’s motives—described as “extremely selfish”—led to significant unrest within society. The social ramifications of such heinous acts often ripple beyond the immediate victims, affecting families and communities.

The execution of Shiraishi is the first since July 2022 and the first to occur under Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba’s leadership, which began in October of the previous year. A notable aspect of Japan’s legal system is how it administers the death penalty; prisoners are informed of their execution just hours prior, a practice criticized by human rights advocates due to the psychological strain it places on those on death row.

Japan remains one of the few industrialized democracies that still enforces capital punishment, alongside the United States. Public opinion appears to favor this practice; a 2024 government survey revealed that 83% of respondents considered the death penalty “unavoidable.” This overwhelming support reflects a complex societal perspective on crime and punishment in Japan.

In recent years, Japan has also seen noteworthy developments in its legal system, including the acquittal of Iwao Hakamada, who was wrongfully convicted and spent an astounding 47 years on death row, a case that underscores the importance of judicial integrity.

As discussions surrounding capital punishment continue, the execution of Shiraishi reinforces the challenges facing nations balancing justice, societal expectations, and human rights—an ongoing dialogue that resonates across the globe.

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