Police Hunt Otaku

We've already heard about otaku hunting going on in Akihabara but this is news to me - police are now hunting otaku too...

There has been much talk and comments on boards around the Japanese Internets regarding how police in Shinjuku have been stopping people who dress like some otaku - requesting a bag and pocket check with the excuse that they are looking for weapons.
This spot check is called "Shokumu Shitsumon" [職務質問] where the police ask what your occupation is and request ID. In some cases they then proceed to ask more or go through your belongings depending on how you react.

These findings have been carried out by Tantei File who also list what types of people the police do spot checks on - this list was provided by a police officer.

• People wearing camouflage trousers or jacket
• People with chains or keys (hanging off trousers)
• Looks weak (!)
• People wearing a bandanna
• People wearing leather

Tantei File decided to put this rumor to the test by sending out Ozumi-san to Shinjuku dressed in camouflage trousers, a bandana, chain and keys hanging off his trousers and leather gloves ^^;

Below: In Ozumi-sans bag is only this message. The *nuisance* (not direct translation) translates as "Tough luck - nothing in here!"

Below: Ozumi-san sets out to Shinjuku in his otaku gear. Below: Rumor seems to be true. Ozumi-san is stopped by two police. Below: Police: Hellooo? You reckon you can show us whats in the bag?
Ozumi: By all means!
Ozumi: All I have is this... (shows the "Tough luck - nothing in here!" message)
Police: OK, let me check your pockets...
The police try to hide their embarrassment by ignoring the message and requesting a pocket check.... A good question was raised as to why people who look and dress like Yakuza (plenty of them in Shinjuku who definitely carry knives) don't get stopped by police and yet otaku (who are unlikely to be carrying a knife) have a high probability of being stopped.