In July 2012, Osaka saw the creation of a new police station: the 阿倍野警察署 (Abeno Police Station). This station is just one part of the larger Osaka Prefectural Police, a force responsible for maintaining law and order across Osaka Prefecture. The Osaka Prefectural Police has a long history, dating back to July 1, 1954.
The 阿倍野警察署 plays a vital role in local safety. This police station, like others across Osaka, operates within a system established by the National Police Agency. It answers to the police chief and is overseen by the Osaka Public Safety Commission. This structure ensures accountability and local oversight.
The Osaka Prefectural Police is a large organization. It employs 23,242 people, including 21,474 police officers and 1,768 civilian staff. The annual budget is substantial, reaching 2.6 trillion yen. To manage such a force, the Osaka Prefectural Police headquarters has several departments. These include the General Affairs Department, Police Affairs Department, Life Safety Department, Regional Department, Criminal Affairs Department, Traffic Department, Security Department, Police Academy, and various regional headquarters.
Interestingly, Osaka’s police force was the first in Japan to introduce a “lookout investigation” system. Beginning in 1978, dedicated teams began conducting surveillance operations. This innovative approach helped Osaka’s police stay at the forefront of crime prevention. The force has a complex organization, mirroring the national structure with its own hierarchy, and specialized departments. Even the police car numbers carry a special meaning, with “naniwa” used across the prefecture.
Sadly, the Osaka Prefectural Police, like any large organization, has faced its share of scandals and controversies. Cases of bribery, leaked documents, and even tragic incidents like the “Shiratori” murder case in Sapporo in 1952 have tested the force’s reputation. Yet, despite these challenges, the 阿倍野警察署 and the broader Osaka Prefectural Police force remains a key pillar of community safety in Osaka. They strive to protect residents and uphold the law, working every day to create a more secure environment.