012 Lured by Promises of Dying Together: How a Man in Japan Used Twitter to Murder 9 Lonely People and Spark a Nationwide Call for Safer Social Media and Mental Health Support - Japanese True Crime

The Zama Serial Murder Case: A Tragic Crime in Modern Japan

In 2017, a disturbing case shocked Japan and the world. In Zama, a city near Tokyo, police discovered the remains of nine people—eight women and one man—in a small apartment. The man who lived there, 27 years old at the time, was arrested and later admitted to killing all nine victims.

The case began when police investigated the disappearance of a young woman. Their search led them to the suspect’s apartment. There, they found evidence of multiple murders. The man had used social media—specifically Twitter—to contact people who were struggling with feelings of depression or suicidal thoughts. He pretended to be supportive and told them he would die with them. But instead, he lured them to his apartment, where he killed them.

The crimes took place over about two months. The suspect later said his real motive was not to die but to take advantage of the victims—some for money, others for control.

He was arrested, put on trial, and received the death penalty in 2020. The case led to major changes in how Japan monitors social media and supports people with mental health struggles. It reminded the nation of the importance of kindness, trust, and seeking help.

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