Editor-DN
In Japan, causing emotional distress through harassing phone calls is considered a criminal offense.
In a bizarre incident in Japan, a man was arrested for making more than 100 silent phone calls to his wife a day for several weeks. The disturbing incident took place between July and August, which attracted public attention due to the husband’s strange behaviour. According to South China Morning Posta 31-year-old woman from Hugo Prefecture reported to the police that she had received billions of disturbing calls every day in July and August. However, the caller remained silent on answering. At first she brought her worries to her husband, but his inattention and lack of concern disappointed him.
A turning point came when she noticed that calls stopped when her husband was sleeping, gaming or spending time with her. He became suspicious, and devised a test. While shopping together, she kept a close eye on his movements, noting that he didn’t touch his phone, and that’s when the calls stopped.
She then reported her concerns to the police, who investigated the couple’s phone records. Investigation revealed that the husband was indeed the mastermind behind the mysterious silent calls, much to his wife’s dismay. Further investigation revealed that he was using a private number to hide his identity.
The couple had no known relationship issues and seemed to be living harmoniously. According to reports, his motives were motivated by jealousy and possessiveness. A particular incident in the past triggered his insecurities when he found his wife engaged in a conversation with another man. Feeling threatened, he began making silent calls as punishment. However, he also claimed that he “loves her very much.”
In Japan, causing significant emotional distress through harassing phone calls is considered a criminal offense. Violators could face up to one year in prison or a fine of up to ¥1 million (US$7,000), and a prohibition order would be issued.
On September 4, authorities detained and arrested the husband. While he has yet to be sentenced, the incident has sparked a national conversation in Japan. Many called for greater awareness and action against emotional abuse and domestic abuse.
One user wrote, “Husband has too much control over his wife. This kind of love is suffocating.”
Another commented, “Affairs are the best way for couples to solve problems, not harassment or violence.”
