Chinese Engineer Arrested in Tokyo for Operating Illegal Taxi Service

Tokyo police arrested a 42-year-old Chinese systems engineer for operating an unlicensed taxi service, commonly known as a "white-plate" car, near Tokyo Station. The incident occurred on the afternoon of July 10 when the engineer allegedly picked up three American tourists, intending to drive them to a hotel in Shinagawa Ward.

Authorities from the Marunouchi Police Station noticed the suspicious activity and intercepted the vehicle. An investigation confirmed that the engineer was operating without the required taxi driver's license, a violation of Japan's Road Transport Act. He reportedly charged the tourists approximately 10% more than the standard taxi fare.

The engineer, who resides in Minato Ward, Tokyo, holds a "highly skilled professional" visa, a category designed to attract specialized talent to Japan with more flexible conditions than typical work visas. Authorities are currently investigating the reasons behind his decision to engage in unlicensed taxi operations despite his professional status.