The Metropolitan Police Department recruitment efforts took center stage at a major event in Tokyo’s Minato Ward on Saturday. Organizers aimed to attract new applicants by showcasing real police work through engaging presentations and hands-on demonstrations. The event drew 577 participants, including many high school and college students interested in law enforcement careers.
Around 50 different divisions participated, including the Criminal Investigation Bureau and the Traffic Bureau. During the first half, officers in uniforms from riot and patrol units spoke about their daily duties and personal time. A team from the communication command center demonstrated how officers handle 110 emergency calls in real time.
Meanwhile, students asked questions about job requirements, work schedules, and skill expectations during the interactive Q&A session. To offer more insight, officers from the forensic division gave a sketching demonstration based on eyewitness descriptions. Attendees watched as the sketch artist recreated a suspect’s face using only verbal details from volunteers.
Additionally, students tried on gear from the motorcycle and riot police units, posing for photos and asking officers about their work. One 16-year-old student, inspired by police dramas, said the event deepened his interest in joining the force. “It was a great chance to understand what police officers actually do,” he shared with enthusiasm.
Toshihiro Motohashi, who oversees Metropolitan Police Department recruitment, encouraged attendees to apply with passion. “You don’t need special abilities to join us,” he said. “We welcome anyone with strong motivation and commitment.” This message resonated with many students, especially those uncertain about their qualifications.
The Metropolitan Police Department recruitment event successfully broke down barriers and myths about police work. By blending informative content with personal stories and real tools, the department connected with potential future officers. As Japan faces growing needs for public safety personnel, outreach efforts like this may help secure the next generation of officers.
