Ex-Announcer YouTuber Warns as Death Threat Maker Apologizes, Faces Legal Action

Even if they claim it was a joke, it’s too late now

The offender claimed it was a joke, but the situation is far from over.

Aoki Kanon, a former announcer and YouTuber, was targeted with a death threat on X on February 8th. The threat read: “I will kill Aoki Kanon at 3:05 PM on February 9th. I will burn down her house and kill her.”

In response, Aoki posted: “Yes, that’s a crime. I will report it to the police immediately.”

She continued, “The police came to my house for an investigation earlier. They told me not to disclose any details, so I will be working behind the scenes towards the arrest.”

Afterward, the person who made the threat sent a message from the same account, saying: “Aoki Kanon, it was me who made the threat, but please forgive me. It was just a joke.”

Aoki replied, “Well, if you’re picking a fight with me, be prepared for the consequences. It will become something serious, so just wait.”

The user who made the threat had created their account last month. Upon reviewing their past posts, it was discovered that they had made similar death and bomb threats to several other individuals. One of them was Sato Saori, a public accountant and the leader of the “Tax Reduction Party,” with a threat nearly identical to Aoki’s, saying: “I will kill Sato Saori at 3:05 PM on February 9th. I will burn down her house and kill her. If she’s not home, I will kidnap and kill her.”

Sato also reportedly called the police, and the user, once again, claimed it was just a joke.

Other targets included Kagoshima University, Hezuma Ryu, and various business figures, with the user bragging by posting screenshots of their messages.

Attorney Kenta Mori from Mori Law Firm was astounded by the actions, stating: “These actions could be considered threats under criminal law (up to 2 years in prison or a fine of up to 300,000 yen). If the victims experienced business interference, it could be considered obstruction of business (up to 3 years in prison or a fine of up to 500,000 yen). If a report has been filed, the police are likely already investigating. Even if the offender claims it was a joke, it’s too late now.”

Those who received the death threats experienced real fear and disruptions to their work. The law will surely take action, and such lawlessness cannot be allowed to continue.