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Crime

Japan robbery ring hid behind messaging apps, disposable crooks

Attention turns to identifying mastermind as suspects arrive from Philippines

Police investigate the scene of a robbery-homicide in metropolitan Tokyo Jan. 23.   © Kyodo

TOKYO -- A monthslong string of violent robberies across Japan has led investigators to the Philippines from the dark world of online criminal recruitment, a blind spot for law enforcement.

The Philippines on Tuesday deported two of four Japanese men suspected of remotely running the robberies, one of which resulted in the death of a 90-year-old woman. The pair were detained upon arriving in Japan, and the other two are expected to be deported soon.

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