In a bizarre theft case in Okinawa, Japan, 16 middle and high school students found approximately 1 billion yen (about $6.8 million) in cash inside an abandoned house during a "dare" adventure. Instead of reporting the find, they returned multiple times to take the money and went on a spending spree that ended with their arrest after buying drugs.
Lavish Spending and Drug Purchases Led to Capture
According to the Okinawa Times, the group comprised 12 junior high boys and 4 senior high boys. Initially exploring the empty house for fun, they stumbled upon the cash and decided to take it. Over several trips, they emptied the stash. With the windfall, they bought designer goods, electronics, and "zombie vape" drugs. Their sudden wealth and extravagant lifestyle raised red flags, leading police directly to them. All suspects confessed to burglary and trespassing.
House Abandoned for 20+ Years; Relatives Unaware of Hidden Cash
The property had been empty for over two decades. The owner's relatives told media they had no idea the elderly relative had hidden such a large sum at home. They expressed regret over the crime and hoped the teenagers would take responsibility through the legal process and reform.
All 16 Minors Referred to Family Court
In mid-November 2025, police sent the case to prosecutors on charges of theft and breaking and entering. On December 25, the Naha District Public Prosecutors Office transferred it to the Naha Family Court for juvenile proceedings. The case highlights how ultra-low interest rates in Japan encourage some households to keep cash at home, often hidden from family members. It also serves as a cautionary tale for cryptocurrency investors who store assets in secret wallets: ensure a plan is in place to disclose holdings to heirs.