Thefts of outdoor air conditioner units are surging across Japan as criminals target the valuable copper and aluminum inside the machinery [1, 3].
This trend creates a public health risk by stripping homes of essential cooling during extreme heat waves. The timing is particularly critical as some regions experience dangerous temperature spikes, such as Hita City in Oita Prefecture, which recorded a high of 39.1°C [1].
According to National Police Agency statistics, 3,397 air conditioner unit thefts were confirmed nationwide in 2026 [1]. This figure represents an approximately 13-fold increase compared to 2020 [1]. The spike is driven by the market value of raw materials, as the price of copper has risen approximately two-fold over the last 10 years [1].
Local authorities are reporting high concentrations of crime in specific municipalities. The Chiba Prefectural Police said that approximately 50 unit thefts were confirmed in Togane City between January and July of this year [2].
Victims describe the thefts as jarring and invasive. A woman living in Miyagi Prefecture said, "I never thought it would be taken. I was surprised. It feels disgusting" [1].
Industry experts warn that certain areas are more vulnerable than others. Koyo Hiramatsu, representative director of the Air Conditioner Installation Engineers Association, said that thefts are occurring [1]. Experts said that disaster-stricken areas affected by heavy rains or earthquakes are often targeted for their metal resources [3].
Police and industry groups are urging residents to implement security measures to protect their equipment as the demand for scrap metal continues to grow [1, 2].
“The price of copper has risen approximately two-fold over the last 10 years.”
The surge in thefts reflects a convergence of economic and environmental pressures. As global commodity prices for industrial metals like copper rise, residential infrastructure is being viewed as an accessible source of raw materials. When these crimes occur in disaster zones or during record-breaking heat waves, the loss of climate control transforms a property crime into a significant safety hazard for vulnerable populations.
