Oh, Japan! Yakuza Trick-Or-Treat

In recent years, the popularity of Halloween in Japan has increased. And, as such, Japan's largest crime organization, the Yamaguchi-gumi, have decided to get in on the action.

Each year, these yakuza hand out huge bags of candy to local children, at their headquarters in Kobe, on Halloween night. And, despite the less savory side of this organization, it's hard to deny the joy that this event has brought to local kids and families.

But, this year the locals may be disappointed to find that Yamaguchi-gumi has cancelled their annual Halloween event for this year. Stating that: “Unfortunately, due to various circumstances our annual Halloween event is cancelled this year. We are looking forward to next year, when we hope to be able to run the event again. -Yamaguchi-gumi”

While the Yamaguchi-gumi have not given a specific cause for the cancellation of the event, local police speculate that it is due to secession of several branches from the main organization, thus leading to an increased risk in inter-gang violence.

It's a bit odd to see mafia getting into the Halloween spirit. But, hey. Free candy, right?