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Japan's feared Yakuza launch their own magazine

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By Steven Raeburn, N/A

July 11, 2013 | 2 min read

Japan’s feared and secretive organised crime group, the Yakuza, has ventured into media, publishing a magazine for its members, according to Japanese newspapers.

The gang has 27,000 members

The Sankei Shimbun reported that the Yakuza has distributed an eight page magazine to the Yamaguchi-gumi syndicate to strengthen unity within the 27,000 membership.

The paper reported that Yakuza don Kenichi Shinoda appears, offering guidance to Yakuza youth on values and disciplines they should observe.

It reportedly includes an entertainment section and satirical haiku.

A police source said the publication may be an effort to attain legitimacy.

"They may feel that it has become harder to carry on with their activities under anti-mafia ordinances that bar them from opening new bank accounts and signing real estate contracts,' the source is quoted.

Yakuza image via Shutterstock

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