Japan Executes ‘Twitter Killer’ in First Hanging Since 2022

Japan has executed Takahiro Shiraishi, known as the “Twitter Killer,” marking the country’s first execution since 2022. Shiraishi was convicted of murdering and dismembering nine people he lured through Twitter in 2017, targeting individuals with suicidal thoughts. The case shocked the nation and sparked debate on mental health and social media regulation. Despite growing international criticism of capital punishment, Japan defends its use for severe crimes. The justice ministry confirmed the hanging took place on Tuesday.