On February 28, 2025, the Omuta Police Station in Fukuoka Prefecture extended their gratitude to the management and staff of the Seven-Eleven Omuta Katsutachi store for their proactive measures against potential fraud. Manager Yayako Tanaka, aged 43, and two employees, Miwa Aramaki, 50, and Naoko Minegishi, 44, were presented with letters of appreciation during the ceremony.
This acknowledgment highlights the importance of community vigilance, especially as the region continues to combat rising instances of fraud targeting vulnerable individuals. Notably, this was the second award for Miwa Aramaki, who has also earned the title of "Scam Prevention Meister" from the prefectural police, recognizing her commitment to maintaining public safety.
The incident leading to this commendation unfolded on the afternoon of February 6, 2025. A woman in her 60s visited the store and purchased electronic money cards valued at 2,800 yen. After making the purchase, she approached Aramaki, seeking clarification on how to use the cards. The inquiry raised Aramaki’s suspicions, prompting her to provide the customer with informational pamphlets on fraud prevention.
Despite Aramaki's efforts, the woman initially dismissed the notion of being targeted for fraud, staunchly denying any victimization. Nevertheless, the caution raised by the store employees persisted. After the customer requested the transmission of the card's usage rights, both Tanaka and Minegishi joined forces with Aramaki to persuade the woman to reconsider her stance.
Upon their intervention, it became apparent to the staff and the customer alike the nature of the threat was serious. The woman had been receiving false charges from messages sent through the site she had utilized, alongside intimidating threats about being sued should she refuse to pay. Thanks to the teamwork of these three dedicated individuals at the Seven-Eleven store, the situation was resolved without financial loss.
Aramaki, reflecting on the incident, stated, "We were able to prevent damage through our teamwork. Our combined vigilance allowed us to recognize the signs of potential fraud quickly." This incident not only showcases the impact of diligent community service but also emphasizes the role of store staff as frontline defenders against fraud.
Both Tanaka and Minegishi reiterated the sentiments shared by Aramaki, emphasizing the need for continued awareness around fraud prevention. Their teamwork serves as a model for how individuals can collaboratively protect vulnerable members of the community from financial predators.
With increasing digital transactions, there is heightened potential for scams aimed at unsuspecting customers, particularly the elderly. The recognition from the police serves as both encouragement and caution, reminding others of the necessity for constant vigilance.
Law enforcement officials encourage other businesses and citizens to adopt similar practices to identify and report suspicious activities. Creating educational programs and implementing proactive measures like those seen at the Seven-Eleven store can help build stronger defenses against fraud.
Tanaka concluded the acknowledgment event with resolve, stating, "We will continue to heighten our awareness to prevent fraud." The call to action is evident as the community rallies around this cause, inspired by the collective efforts seen at the Seven-Eleven store.
The heartfelt gratitude expressed by the Omuta Police Station punctuates the day as recognition spreads beyond the action itself, fostering a culture of cooperation and alertness throughout Omuta City.