The U.S. Embassy in Tokyo is urging Americans to avoid bars in the city’s Roppongi district following an uptick in “drink-spiking incidents.”
“The number of reports of U.S. citizens being drugged in bars has increased significantly in recent weeks,” the Embassy said in a statement. “Typically, the victim unknowingly drinks a beverage that has been secretly mixed with a drug that renders the victim unconscious for several hours, during which time large sums of money are charged to the victim’s credit card or the card is stolen outright. Victims sometimes regain consciousness in the bar or club, while at other times the victim awakens on the street.”
The Roppongi district is well-known for its bars and is a popular destination for Western travelers.
“Because this type of crime is already widespread in Roppongi bars and is on the rise, the U.S. Embassy has recommended that members of the embassy community avoid frequenting drinking establishments in this area. American citizens may consider this recommendation as it applies to their own behavior,” the Embassy said. “If you, nevertheless, choose to participate in Roppongi night life, we urge you to remain extra vigilant of your surroundings and maintain a high level of situational awareness.”