A Chinese National was arrested on suspicion of operating an illegal taxi service (known as “shirotaku”) by transporting tourists in his private vehicle. He reportedly drove passengers from a hotel in Ryogoku to the airport—a distance of about 60 km—for roughly half the official fare. At Narita Airport, four such illegal taxi operations were uncovered last year, but this is the first case this year.
Illegal taxi operation at Narita Airport
At Narita International Airport Police Station on the morning of the 23rd in Chiba, a man glanced twice toward the camera, possibly noticing the media filming.
The suspect, Luo Shilei (34), a Chinese National, was arrested on suspicion of operating an unlicensed taxi service—specifically, transporting paying passengers in a private vehicle without permission.
Police had witnessed Luo engaging in illegal taxi activity. In the captured footage, Luo can be seen unloading suitcases from a white van.
According to police, Luo drove one Chinese tourist from a hotel in Ryogoku, Tokyo, to Narita Airport, approximately 60 kilometers away, without having the necessary business license.
Fare was about half the official price
Luo reportedly communicated with passengers through an app and charged about 13,000 yen—roughly half the standard fare.
During questioning, Luo admitted to the allegations, saying, “There’s no mistake.” Police are investigating whether there are additional offenses.
Last year, four cases of illegal taxi operations were uncovered at Narita Airport. This is the first such case this year.
