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Japan Police Arrest Kyoto Resident for Sewing Housemate's Lips Shut
By 19Network Editorial Team · Jul 9, 2026 · 2 min read
A 55-year-old woman in Kyoto was detained after allegedly using a needle and thread on an elderly victim at a shared residence.
Japanese authorities in Kyoto arrested a 55-year-old woman on Monday after she allegedly used a needle and thread to sew her elderly housemate’s lips together. The incident took place at a communal living facility in the Shimogyo Ward, raising immediate concerns over the safety of residents in shared welfare housing. Assault and Detention in Kyoto The suspect, identified by Kyoto Prefectural Police as Mihoko Ohta, was detained following a report from facility staff who discovered the victim. The victim, a woman in her 70s, sustained puncture wounds and lacerations to her mouth. She was transported to a local hospital for treatment and is reported to be in stable condition. According to police investigators, Ohta admitted to the assault during questioning. She reportedly told officers that she became frustrated with the victim’s constant talking and complaining. Authorities seized a sewing needle and thread from the scene as evidence. The suspect faces charges of assault and causing bodily injury. Oversight in Shared Housing The facility is categorized as a supportive residence for individuals receiving public welfare assistance. These types of homes provide low-cost accommodation…