Osaka, Japan: Police in Osaka have taken a 12-year-old girl into custody after she allegedly attempted to rob a convenience store using a kitchen knife and an aerosol spray, leaving an elderly shopkeeper with minor injuries.

The incident occurred on Friday morning in the Sugimoto area of Sumiyoshi Ward. According to local reporting, the girl entered the shop shortly after 9:10 a.m. and confronted the 86-year-old woman working there.

Shopkeeper Injured During Confrontation

Investigators said the girl allegedly sprayed the shopkeeper in the face with an antiperspirant product before threatening her with a kitchen knife and demanding money.

The elderly woman reportedly resisted the attempted robbery. The girl then fled without taking any cash or other property.

The shopkeeper sustained minor injuries affecting her eyes and arm. She was taken to a local hospital for treatment.

Security Footage Helps Police Identify Suspect

Police examined security camera recordings from the surrounding area as part of their investigation. The footage helped officers trace the suspected offender and locate her.

Authorities took the girl into custody early Saturday. During questioning, she reportedly admitted to the allegations and said she had wanted money.

Because the suspect is a minor, the case is being handled through the appropriate procedures for juvenile cases. Authorities transferred her to a child consultation centre for further assessment and proceedings.

Case Highlights Challenges in Protecting Small Businesses

The incident has drawn attention to the safety of small retail establishments, where employees may face sudden confrontations during ordinary business hours.

The case also raises questions about the circumstances that led a child to allegedly attempt a violent robbery. Further assessment by the relevant authorities will help determine the appropriate response under Japan’s juvenile justice framework.