The Kanagawa Prefectural Police are currently investigating allegations of improper traffic violation enforcement by the 2nd Traffic Mobile Unit, which reportedly had repeated incidents of inappropriate law enforcement related to speeding and other violations. As a result of this investigation, the police plan to cancel about 2,700 traffic violations that could not be verified as properly enforced, and they intend to refund approximately 35 million yen in fines that have already been paid by individuals cited for these violations.

Additionally, some officers, including a sergeant, are expected to face charges for creating falsified investigation documents to support these improper enforcements. The period during which these alleged malpractices occurred ranges from March 2022 to September 2024, highlighting a significant breach of trust between law enforcement and the public. Officers reportedly exaggerated the distances they claim to have pursued violators and crafted false records without conducting on-site investigations, further undermining the integrity of the enforcement process.

This discovery of large-scale malpractice is rare and may influence how traffic enforcement is conducted moving forward. Following a complaint from an individual who was wrongly cited, the Kanagawa Prefectural Police initiated an investigation in September 2024. The findings revealed not just isolated incidents but a troubling pattern of behavior where colleagues and superiors appeared to support or ignore the misconduct. In response, a specialized team will soon be formed to handle the cancellation of violations and the refund process, along with establishing a dedicated inquiry window for public concerns regarding this issue.