Man Arrested for Tailgating and Unlicensed Driving in Tokushima

Tokushima Prefectural Police arrested a 63-year-old man from Komatsushima City on suspicion of “obstruction of traffic” (aggressive driving). The arrest follows a viral social media video showing the suspect cutting off other vehicles and shouting on the road, occurring after he was arrested on July 8 for driving without a license following a license suspension.

Sequential Arrests and the “Aori Unten” Incident

The suspect’s legal troubles began on July 8, when he was arrested for driving without a license. However, the situation escalated.

Footage circulated on social media platforms showed the man engaging in aggressive maneuvers. The Tokushima Shimbun Digital report specifies that the man used his vehicle to obstruct other drivers, including sudden braking and persistent tailgating, and the suspect allegedly began his aggressive driving after an ambulance had passed through the area.

The evidence was captured via dashcam footage, which showed the suspect cutting into the lanes of other vehicles in a manner that created a risk of traffic danger. This specific behavior—intentionally impeding the progress of another vehicle—is the primary basis for the “obstruction of traffic” charge.

Legal Framework and the Danger of Recidivism

The suspect’s actions represent a case of recidivism. By driving after a license suspension, he violated the law. By then engaging in aggressive driving, he faced an obstruction of traffic charge.

Impact on Tokushima’s Public Safety

Comparing the Charges

The suspect faces two distinct legal battles based on the timeline of his actions: