Japan’s most powerful Yakuza syndicate, the Yamaguchi-gumi, has said it will no longer engage in internal fights. In a letter sent to police in Hyogo Prefecture, leaders of the group pledged to stop power struggles within the organization. The letter was handed in on Monday and officially recognized by the police on Thursday.

This rare and formal statement marks a major turn in how the Yamaguchi-gumi wants to present itself. The group said it wants to avoid more trouble and hopes to reduce the harm caused by its past fights. But not everyone is convinced that this promise will lead to real change.

Conflict Since 2015 Split

The Yamaguchi-gumi has been in a state of unrest since 2015. That year, several senior members broke away to form rival groups, most notably the Kobe Yamaguchi-gumi. This split led to a string of violent acts between the factions, including shootings and property damage. These fights put the public at risk and drew more attention from the police.

Now, after almost a decade of tension, the Yamaguchi-gumi wants to end these internal battles. But it is unclear if the breakaway groups will agree. The police say that the move might be one-sided and may not lead to peace unless the other groups also commit.

Police and Government Crackdowns

Experts believe this latest move by the Yamaguchi-gumi is part of a larger strategy to ease pressure from the police. Over the last few years, Japan has passed stronger laws to crack down on organized crime. Since 2020, new rules have made it harder for Yakuza members to operate in the open.

Local governments have also joined the effort. For example, in Fukuoka, anti-Yakuza signs are posted in public places. Businesses that deal with known gang members face penalties. Even giving food or shelter to a Yakuza member can lead to punishment under the law.

These steps have forced Yakuza groups to hide their activities. Many now use front companies or online scams to make money. The Yamaguchi-gumi, once bold and public, may now want to appear more peaceful to avoid being targeted.

The Yakuza’s Unusual Status

Unlike many crime groups around the world, the Yakuza have operated in the open for years. They have office buildings, printed business cards, and follow a strict code of honor. In some cases, they even helped communities after natural disasters, giving out food and supplies.

But behind this public image lies a dark world of crime. The Yakuza are involved in extortion, drug trafficking, human smuggling, and fraud. Their actions have caused deep harm across Japan and even overseas.

The Yamaguchi-gumi, which began in Kobe in 1915, is the largest of Japan’s crime groups. At its peak, it had over 40,000 members. Now, that number has fallen sharply.

Falling Membership Numbers

As of 2024, the number of known Yakuza members in Japan has dropped below 20,000 for the first time. The National Police Agency reported that only 18,800 people are linked to organized crime groups. This sharp decline shows that public and legal pressure is working.

Social changes have also played a role. In modern Japan, most people want nothing to do with gang culture. Yakuza members are often easy to spot due to their full-body tattoos. These tattoos, once seen as a symbol of loyalty, are now linked to crime and fear.

Because of this, many places such as gyms, pools, and bathhouses ban people with tattoos. It’s one more way society is pushing the Yakuza out of public life.

Will the Ceasefire Work?

The big question now is whether the Yamaguchi-gumi’s pledge will make a real difference. The police remain cautious. They say that one group saying it wants peace does not mean the violence is over.

“Other groups may not agree with this move,” one officer said. “We need to see what happens next.”

Still, some believe this could be the start of something bigger. If other Yakuza groups join the call for peace, it may lead to a new era for Japan’s criminal underworld.

What Comes Next?

Japan’s leaders have made it clear—they will not stop fighting organized crime. The laws will remain tough, and police will continue to track gang activity. The Yamaguchi-gumi may hope to ease some of this pressure by changing its image, but it will not be easy.

The world is watching to see if Japan’s largest crime group can truly change. For now, the promise of peace is just a first step.

The Yamaguchi-gumi’s promise to end inner conflict is a rare move in Japan’s crime world. While it may signal a change in tone, real progress will depend on actions, not just words. As the police stay alert and the laws stay firm, Japan continues its push to end the Yakuza’s grip on society.