Tokyo police are investigating a series of sophisticated cash robberies targeting money courier operations, with criminals stealing over 600 million yen (approximately $4 million USD) in coordinated attacks across the capital. The incidents, which occurred between January 29-30, 2026, have raised serious concerns about organized crime targeting cash transport services in Japan. According to NHK, the first major robbery took place in Taito Ward, Tokyo, where thieves made off with over 400 million yen in cash. Shortly afterward, a second attack occurred at Haneda Airport's parking facility, where assailants targeted a vehicle carrying nearly 200 million yen. In the airport incident, a male courier was attacked near the cash-laden vehicle, though the full extent of the theft remains under investigation. The sophistication of these crimes became evident when police discovered that the white vehicle used by suspects fleeing the Haneda Airport scene was equipped with counterfeit license plates, according to NHK's reporting. This detail suggests a level of planning and organization typically associated with professional criminal networks rather than opportunistic theft. In a significant development, investigators have traced some of the stolen currency internationally. NHK reports that the male victim from the Haneda Airport incident subsequently traveled to Hong Kong, and over 50 million yen recovered in Hong Kong may be connected to the cash being transported at the airport during the attack. This international dimension adds complexity to the investigation and suggests possible cross-border criminal coordination. For foreign residents and business owners in Japan, these incidents highlight important security considerations. Japan has long maintained a reputation as one of the world's safest countries, with cash remaining the dominant payment method for many transactions. However, this reliance on physical currency creates vulnerabilities, particularly for businesses handling large cash volumes. The targeting of professional money courier services is particularly noteworthy. These companies typically employ security protocols and trained personnel, yet the attackers successfully executed multiple heists in rapid succession. This suggests criminals conducted surveillance and planned their operations carefully, identifying patterns in courier routes and timing. Expats operating businesses that handle significant cash amounts should review their security procedures. While these attacks targeted professional courier services rather than individual businesses, the incidents demonstrate that organized criminals are actively seeking cash-rich targets in the Tokyo metropolitan area. Business owners should consider limiting cash holdings, varying deposit schedules, and ensuring adequate security measures when transporting money. The use of counterfeit license plates indicates criminals are taking steps to avoid identification through Tokyo's extensive surveillance camera network. This level of sophistication suggests the involvement of organized crime groups with resources and expertise in evading law enforcement. Japanese police have not announced arrests in connection with either incident as of this reporting. The investigation continues across multiple jurisdictions, including international cooperation with Hong Kong authorities regarding the recovered funds. For the general expat population, these incidents serve as a reminder that while Japan remains exceptionally safe for residents and visitors, organized crime does operate within the country. However, these were targeted attacks on specific cash transport operations rather than random street crimes, and the risk to ordinary residents remains minimal. Authorities encourage anyone with information about suspicious activity, particularly regarding white vehicles with potentially false plates near the Haneda Airport area or Taito Ward during the relevant timeframe, to contact Tokyo Metropolitan Police. As investigations continue, additional security measures may be implemented for cash transport operations throughout the capital region, potentially affecting business operations that rely on courier services for cash handling.