Be Aware of Theft and Disaster Fraud in
the Aftermath of the Recent Heavy Rain
We extend our deepest sympathies to those of you suffering from the August 19,
2014 disaster. Unfortunately, crimes including theft and disaster fraud have been
frequently committed after natural disasters in Japan. Please beware of such
crimes.
Theft
 Many cases of theft after disasters have occurred. Thieves steal from
houses while residents are out on evacuation orders.
 Do NOT leave valuables at home. Keep valuables with you in a safe
place.
 Lock your doors and windows every time when you leave the house,
even when you need to go out to evacuate.
 Some thieves pretending to be police officers may call you and instruct
you to leave your house to evacuate, as an evacuation advisory is
issued.
 Police will NOT make a direct call to tell you to evacuate. CALL 110 if
you receive such a phone call, as it can be from a thief.
Asaminami Police Office 082 874 0110
Asakita Police Office
082 812 0110
Disaster Fraud
The following cases occurred after natural disasters in Japan:
 An unscrupulous contractor forced a house owner to sign a contract for
repair by conveying false information that the house owner would
receive municipal subsidies by signing the contract.
 Frauds posing as volunteers or officials offered cleaning or other
services and charged exorbitant service fees afterward.
 A fraudulent repairman pretending to be from a power company visited a
house to check for damage and charged a hefty commission.
 A disreputable contractor visited a damaged house, gave the house
owner a tarp to cover the damaged area of the house, and offered to
repair the area. After the owner declined, the contractor demanded
unreasonable payment for the tarp.
 Get recommendations and check with your insurance company
when deciding on repairing your house with insurance money.
 CALL 082 225 3300 for the Hiroshima City Consumer Center if you
are in trouble or feel suspicious.
Hiroshima City Consumer Center 082 225 3300
Hours: 10:00 AM-7:00PM, Closed on Tuesdays