In a significant move signaling Japan’s stance on capital punishment, Takahiro Shiraishi was executed for the murder of nine individuals, primarily young women, in a case that has left the nation reeling since its revelation in 2017.
Japan Executes Notorious 'Twitter Killer' Takahiro Shiraishi
Japan Executes Notorious 'Twitter Killer' Takahiro Shiraishi
Takahiro Shiraishi, also known as the 'Twitter killer', faces execution for his heinous crimes that shocked Japan and ignited discussions about suicide on social media.
Shiraishi, 30 at the time of the murders, lured his victims—most of whom were between the ages of 15 and 26—through social media, particularly Twitter, where he offered to help them end their struggles with life. His chilling profile stated, "I want to help people who are really in pain. Please DM me anytime." The gruesome details of the case unfolded when police discovered dismembered bodies hidden in coolers and tool boxes within his apartment in Zama, close to Tokyo.
The murders came to light when police were investigating the disappearance of a victim in October 2017. Shiraishi's alarming actions triggered public outrage and discourse regarding the portrayal of suicide and mental health on social media, leading to changes in Twitter’s policies against promoting self-harm and suicide.
Despite a defense stating that his victims consented to their deaths, Shiraishi later contradicted this narrative by claiming he acted without their consent. His trial drew significant public attention, culminating in a verdict that saw him sentenced to death in December 2020. Japan’s Justice Minister Keisuke Suzuki described Shiraishi’s motivations as "genuinely selfish" and highlighted the societal impact of his actions.
The execution of Shiraishi marks Japan's first execution since 2022, and it aims to reinforce the country’s strict stance on crime and public safety amidst ongoing conversations surrounding mental health and the influence of social media.
If you are struggling with mental health issues or in need of support, resources are available in various countries, including helplines in the UK and Japan for those in distress.
The murders came to light when police were investigating the disappearance of a victim in October 2017. Shiraishi's alarming actions triggered public outrage and discourse regarding the portrayal of suicide and mental health on social media, leading to changes in Twitter’s policies against promoting self-harm and suicide.
Despite a defense stating that his victims consented to their deaths, Shiraishi later contradicted this narrative by claiming he acted without their consent. His trial drew significant public attention, culminating in a verdict that saw him sentenced to death in December 2020. Japan’s Justice Minister Keisuke Suzuki described Shiraishi’s motivations as "genuinely selfish" and highlighted the societal impact of his actions.
The execution of Shiraishi marks Japan's first execution since 2022, and it aims to reinforce the country’s strict stance on crime and public safety amidst ongoing conversations surrounding mental health and the influence of social media.
If you are struggling with mental health issues or in need of support, resources are available in various countries, including helplines in the UK and Japan for those in distress.
