The bloodstained battle is finally approaching its final stage.

The “Yamaguchi-gumi Split Conflict” will enter its 10th year on August 27, 2024. The “war” between the sixth-generation Yamaguchi-gumi, led by Chairman Shinobu Tsukasa (82), and the Kobe Yamaguchi-gumi, led by Chairman Kunio Inoue (76), has become an unusually long-term struggle.

FRIDAY has been covering this conflict since its inception. As the milestone approaches, we want to look back on its trajectory with a wealth of exclusive photos.

Sixth-generation Yamaguchi-gumi Chairman Shinobu Tsukasa (now 82).

This magazine captures the first close-up shot of the top leader since the conflict began.

In December 2015, Chairman Tsukasa visited the grave on the anniversary of the fifth-generation leader’s death. Given that it was a period of confusion just four months after the outbreak of the conflict, his expression was particularly stern.

The Catalyst for the Split

The beginning of everything was August 27, 2015. Nonfiction writer Masahiro Ojima, who has written books such as “The Truth Behind the Yamaguchi-gumi Split,” reveals the inside story of that time.

“It is said that the split was triggered by the dissatisfaction among some direct members, led by Chairman Inoue, due to the collection of money ranging from 50 to 100 million yen, including donations and greetings during the New Year and Bon festivals, after the sixth-generation Yamaguchi-gumi took over in 2005. A turning point in the conflict was the release of Deputy Boss Kiyoshi Takayama (76) in October 2019. Takayama was known for his charisma and ruthlessness in strictly controlling the members.

Perhaps influenced by this, two members of the Kobe Yamaguchi-gumi’s affiliated organizations were shot just before Takayama’s release. Additionally, in November, a former member of the sixth-generation side brutally killed a Kobe Yamaguchi-gumi executive by indiscriminately firing an automatic rifle. Along with the intense offensive, the Kobe Yamaguchi-gumi saw core organizations also defecting, leading to a reduction in their power. Initially, the sixth-generation Yamaguchi-gumi had about 6,000 members, while the Kobe Yamaguchi-gumi had about 2,800. By the end of 2023, the sixth-generation Yamaguchi-gumi had about 3,500 members, and the Kobe Yamaguchi-gumi had about 140, resulting in a significant disparity in the strength of the two factions.”

In the over 100-year history of the Yamaguchi-gumi, even the longest conflict, known as the “Yamaichi Conflict,” came to a temporary end after four years and eight months. The “Yamaguchi-gumi Split Conflict” has now lasted nearly twice as long, but the situation seems to be moving towards resolution. Journalist Atsushi Mizoguchi, who is well-versed in organized crime matters, offers this perspective on the situation:

“The fact that the conflict has lasted for 10 years highlights the ineffectiveness of those involved. It’s time to bring the conflict to an end for the sake of appearances. Additionally, there is concern about the health of Deputy Boss Takayama, a key figure on the sixth-generation side. If a resolution is to be made while he is still in good health, some movement should be expected soon.”

There are other factors pushing towards the end of the conflict:

“In early July this year, the Osaka Prefectural Police arrested both the Ikeda-gumi leader and the Kizuna-kai chairman. Both organizations, once part of the Kobe Yamaguchi-gumi, are now prominent Yakuza groups clearly opposing the sixth-generation Yamaguchi-gumi. Both individuals were released by the end of July, but there are rumors among police circles that the Hyogo Prefectural Police may aim to arrest the Kizuna-kai chairman on a separate charge and bring it to indictment in the fall. If the Kizuna-kai chairman is arrested, it would inevitably weaken the Kobe side as well” (national newspaper social department reporter).

“Not Over Until Lives Are Taken”

There are reports that peace negotiations have been progressing behind the scenes, but Kobe Yamaguchi-gumi’s Chairman Inoue remains steadfast, stating, “I will never surrender, even if I am the last one left.” In this context, what scenarios could lead to the end of the conflict? Mizoguchi suggests one possible outcome: the sixth-generation Yamaguchi-gumi issuing a unilateral “end of conflict declaration.”

“They could hold a press conference without consulting the Kobe Yamaguchi-gumi and declare, ‘The conflict is over.’ The Yamaguchi-gumi previously ended a conflict in a similar manner during the ‘Osaka War’ (July 1975 – November 1978). The opposing side, which was in a state of helplessness due to the Yamaguchi-gumi’s attacks, saw their organization collapse as a result of the declaration. It would not be surprising if they are aiming to replicate this scenario.”

In the sixth-generation Yamaguchi-gumi camp, preparations for the end of the conflict are progressing steadily. In November of last year, the sixth-generation Yamaguchi-gumi introduced an unprecedented “President System” for its two direct affiliate groups. The system involves the previous leader remaining as the president while the new leader oversees the organization. This is seen as a move to lay the groundwork for the introduction of the “President System” to the sixth-generation Yamaguchi-gumi.

“The sixth-generation Yamaguchi-gumi seems to believe that the overall situation has already been decided. The focus now is on how to end the conflict without shedding more blood among members and on creating a new organizational structure post-conflict.
By implementing the President System, Chairman Tsukasa could remain with the organization while Deputy Boss Takayama could become the seventh-generation leader. If they can end the conflict and establish a new system, it would be a fitting conclusion to a decade-long struggle. The executives are fully in favor of Takayama’s appointment as the new leader, so there should be no internal issues” (journalist familiar with the Yamaguchi-gumi).

Mizoguchi also considers the introduction of the President System to be “quite possible.” The aim could be to force a bloodless surrender through a “conflict end declaration” and push forward with the new system. However, the Kobe Yamaguchi-gumi is not remaining passive. In April of last year, an incident occurred where the Kizuna-kai Deputy Boss was shot and killed by a leader of a sixth-generation Yamaguchi-gumi-affiliated organization. If they still have the strength to retaliate, there is a possibility that significant bloodshed could occur in the end.

“Even if a ‘conflict end declaration’ is issued, it’s hard to believe Chairman Inoue would accept it. If pushed to the brink, there is a strong possibility he might muster his last remaining strength to counterattack. The sixth-generation Yamaguchi-gumi’s ultimate goal remains to either take Chairman Inoue’s life or force his retirement. The situation is tense and unpredictable, but the end is likely not far off” (previously mentioned journalist).

In this split conflict, over 100 incidents have occurred, resulting in more than 50 casualties. The conflict, which has claimed many lives, may be approaching its end.

Yamaguchi-gumi Split Conflict History: Timeline of Turbulent Events

August 27, 2015
The “Kobe Yamaguchi-gumi” is established, led by Inoue Kunio and 13 direct members from the Yamaguchi-gumi. The number of members is approximately 6,000 for the “sixth-generation” and about 2,800 for the “Kobe” faction.

Chaos at the Yamaguchi-gumi Headquarters Following the Split Conflict

Direct members who left the “sixth-generation” Yamaguchi-gumi faced “excommunication” and “disbandment” penalties. The area in front of the headquarters was overcrowded daily with police and reporters.

Kobe Yamaguchi-gumi Chairman Inoue Kunio (currently 76)

Inoue, who founded the “Kobe” faction, criticized the “sixth-generation” for its strict monetary demands and gained support by significantly reducing tribute payments.

May 31, 2016
An executive from the “Kobe” Ikeda-gumi is shot dead by members of the “sixth-generation” Hirodo-kai.

July 15, 2016
An executive from the “Kobe” Yamakengumi is shot dead by members of the “sixth-generation” Hirodo-kai.

August 19, 2016
A former member of a “sixth-generation” affiliated organization is stabbed to death by leaders of the “Kobe” Ikeda-gumi.

September 29, 2016
“Sixth-generation” Chairman Tsukasa Shinobu, Sumiyoshi-kai Chairman Isao Seki (at the time), and Inagawa-kai Chairman Kiyota Jiro (now President) hold a “Friendship and Social Gathering.” This meeting, where top figures in the yakuza world gathered, is referred to as a “Yakuza Summit.”

Unprecedented Yakuza Summit Emergency Meeting Held

The “Yakuza Summit,” an unprecedented meeting of yakuza leaders, was held in September 2016, about a year after the conflict began. The summit, attended by Sumiyoshi-kai Chairman Isao Seki (left), Inagawa-kai Chairman Kiyota Jiro, took place at a historic restaurant in Yokohama Chinatown. The meeting was reportedly held to demonstrate the unity of the three groups.

April 30, 2017
Young leader Oda Kizumasa and others leave the “Kobe” faction, leading to the establishment of the Yamaguchi-gumi (now known as Kizuna-kai) as a new yakuza organization.

Violent Faction Leader Oda Kizumasa Leaves the “Kobe” Faction

In April 2017, Oda Kizumasa left the “Kobe” faction. During a press conference announcing the formation of a new organization, an executive criticized Chairman Inoue as being “even more obsessed with money than the sixth-generation.”

October 10, 2019
Two members of the “Kobe” Yamakengumi are shot dead by executives from a “sixth-generation” Hirodo-kai affiliated organization, who claimed to be photographers for a true crime magazine.

Daylight Shooting by “Sixth-Generation” Hitman

A shooting incident occurred in broad daylight in front of the “Kobe” Yamakengumi office. The hitman, in full view of alert police officers, killed two individuals in the blink of an eye.

October 18, 2019
“Sixth-Generation” Wakagashira Kiyoshi Takayama is released from Fuchu Prison.

“Sixth-Generation” Yamaguchi-gumi Wakagashira Kiyoshi Takayama (76)
Officials Greet Key Figure Wakagashira Takayama’s Release

The release of key figure Takayama was marked by a significant event for the split conflict. On October 18, Takayama, who appeared at Shinagawa Station shortly after 6 a.m., was greeted by about 20 Yamaguchi-gumi affiliates, including Assistant Wakagashira Teruaki Takeuchi (far right). Following this, the “Sixth-Generation” offensive became notably pronounced.

November 27, 2019
A former member of a “Sixth-Generation” affiliated organization shoots and kills a leader of a “Kobe” affiliated organization. The leader was shot with 13 bullets from an automatic rifle, resulting in a body riddled with bullets, literally turning the victim into a “honeycomb.”

December 3, 2019
“Kobe” Yamakengumi leader Koji Nakata is arrested as the perpetrator of a shooting incident involving “Sixth-Generation” Hirodo-kai members (the incident occurred in August 2019).

“Kobe” Core Organization Leader Arrested for Attempted Murder

Nakata, the leader of the “Kobe” core organization, was arrested for attempting to murder members of a “Sixth Generation” affiliated organization. This attack is seen as retaliation for an incident earlier in the year involving the “Sixth Generation.”

July 2020
The “Kobe” core organization sees significant changes as the Fifth Generation Yamakita Group, led by Nakata, and the honorary chairman, Ikeda Takashi of the Ikeda Group, both depart.

Yamakita Group, the Origin of Inoue’s Leadership, Separates from “Kobe”

In July 2020, an emergency meeting was held in Hyogo Prefecture by the Yamakita Group under “Kobe.” Following this meeting, more than half of the group’s direct members separated from “Kobe.”
**September 8, 2022**
Ikeda of the Ikeda Group visits Inoue’s headquarters at “Kobe.” A relationship of equality is established. The ties between the Ikeda Group and the Kizuna-kai, which has strong connections with Ikeda, deepen the conflict with the “Sixth Generation.”

**Formation of an Equal Alliance Between “Kobe” and the Ikeda Group**

The alliance between Inoue of “Kobe” (left) and Ikeda of the Ikeda Group is established. This partnership exacerbates the conflict, making it more prolonged.

October 26, 2022
Ikeda of the Ikeda Group is attacked by a member of the Yamakita Group who has joined the “Sixth Generation.”

Latest “Yakuza Summit” with Top Leaders

In April 2023, a meeting was held with Takayama, Inagawakai Chairman Kazuya Uchibori (far right), and Sumiyoshikai Chairman Shuji Ogawa. The gathering showcased their strong and positive relationships.

January 2024
By the end of 2023, over 100 conflict-related incidents had occurred. The most recent membership counts are approximately 3,500 for the “Sixth Generation” and about 140 for “Kobe.”

The Smile Shown by Chairman Tsukasa at the Birthday Party in January This Year

Chairman Tsukasa’s cheeks were flushed as he enjoyed the banquet. Perhaps due to his confidence in the end of the conflict, there was also a scene where he smiled broadly at the executives before heading home.

June 7, 2024
Kizuna-kai’s Wakagashira, Shigeki Kanazawa, is arrested as the perpetrator of the shooting incident involving the “sixth generation” Hirodōkai affiliated organization leader (incident occurred in April 2023)

From the September 6-13, 2024, combined issue of ‘FRIDAY’

Yamaguchi-gumi Split Conflict Marks 10 Years on August 27 with Countdown to End and Shocking Scenario

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