A 31-year-old man has been arrested in Japan on suspicion of murder after the skull of a woman who went missing in 2018 was found in his apartment. The discovery has shocked the public and raised disturbing questions about the circumstances surrounding the woman’s disappearance.
The Disappearance of Kaho Miyamoto
Kaho Miyamoto, 21, was last seen on January 4, 2018, at JR Omiya Station in Saitama, where she met Jun Saito, 31. The two went back to Saito’s apartment in Omiya Ward, Saitama City. That was the last time Miyamoto was seen alive. She had taken a train from Tsuchiura Station in Ibaraki to Omiya Station to meet him, according to reports from Japan Times and Japan Today.
Discovery of Human Remains
In May 2023, Saito was arrested on suspicion of stealing a woman’s smartphone. During a search of his apartment, police found two skulls and other bones stored on a shelf. Authorities confirmed that one of the skulls belonged to Kaho Miyamoto. The other skull is believed to have been purchased by Saito online. This discovery led to a deeper investigation, revealing the horrific details of Miyamoto’s death.
Confession and Investigation
According to police, Saito admitted to killing Miyamoto at his home. He allegedly strangled her with a rope, dismembered her body, and stored her remains in his apartment. Police also found tools like knives and saws, which they believe were used in the crime. Saito reportedly confessed to the crime, stating, “I invited her to my home, strangled her, and dismembered her body at my home. I strangled her with a rope.”
Saito also allegedly told police that he had “a murderous desire since I was a child” and that he wanted to kill someone. He claimed that he did it with Miyamoto’s consent, though this statement has been met with skepticism.
Miyamoto’s Emotional Struggles
Reports have revealed that Miyamoto had been struggling with suicidal thoughts when she met up with Saito. According to Japan Today and Japan Times, Saito allegedly asked her to write a suicide note and also removed her SIM card from her smartphone. It appears that Saito took advantage of her vulnerable state to carry out his horrific plan.
Family’s Heartbreak
Miyamoto’s family has expressed their shock and disbelief at the news. In a statement, they described her as a kind and considerate young woman. “She was a kind, earnest girl who was considerate of the feelings of those around her,” the family said. “For now, our family would like to quietly mourn our daughter.”
This chilling case has shaken Japan, with many questions still unanswered. The tragic death of Kaho Miyamoto is a reminder of the dangers that can lurk in even seemingly harmless encounters. As the investigation continues, Saito faces serious charges, and the authorities are working to uncover more details about the crime.
