yakuzas

The yakuza are a transnational organized crime syndicate originating in Japan. Often referred to as the Japanese mafia, they are involved in a wide range of criminal activities including gambling, extortion, loan sharking, drug trafficking, and more recently, white-collar crimes. Historically, yakuza groups have operated with a degree of public visibility, maintaining their own offices and engaging in business ventures, some of which are legitimate fronts for their illicit operations.

Yakuza organizations are characterized by a strict hierarchical structure and a strong sense of loyalty among members. Membership often involves elaborate initiation rituals and a code of conduct that emphasizes honor, obedience, and sacrifice. A distinctive feature of yakuza culture is their extensive and often elaborate tattoos, which cover large portions of their bodies and are typically hidden from public view. Another well-known practice is yubitsume, a ritualistic self-amputation of a portion of the little finger as a form of apology or penance.

While their activities are illegal, the yakuza have sometimes been depicted in Japanese society in a complex manner, with some narratives portraying them as figures of tradition or even as providers of order in certain contexts, though these are often romanticized views. Law enforcement efforts in Japan have intensified over the years, leading to increased arrests and a decline in yakuza membership and influence. However, the yakuza continue to adapt and operate, posing a persistent challenge to law enforcement both within Japan and internationally.