Vigilance urged for visitors to Roppongi district Published Dec. 14, 2009 By Maj. John Hutcheson 18th Wing Public Affairs KADENA AIR BASE, Japan -- With holiday travel in full swing, base officials are urging Airmen and their families to exercise caution and a little common sense when visiting entertainment districts in Tokyo, namely Roppongi. A series of incidents earlier this year in which Americans reported having their drinks spiked at clubs and bars prompted the U.S. State Department to issue a Warden Message in March. The spiking typically incapacitates the victim for several hours, during which time the perpetrators steal the victim's credit card and run up thousands of dollars in fraudulent charges. Major J.C. Camps, Chief of the 18th Wing Antiterrorism Office says that Americans planning to visit Roppongi clubs and bars should be aware of the risks and take steps to protect themselves. "We understand our Airmen are going to visit Roppongi when they're in Tokyo," said Maj. Camps. "We just want them to be safe and smart about it." He suggests that Airmen always go out in groups to ensure safety in numbers. He recommends not accepting drinks from strangers and keeping an eye on the drinks that you buy yourself. "Keeping alcohol consumption within limits is a good idea too," said the major. "The more you drink, the more your judgment is impaired and the more likely you are to be taken advantage of. In addition, if you can leave the credit card at home, you'll deny the criminals what they're after." If an incident does occur, personnel should contact the Japanese police immediately and report the incident to military law enforcement officials. "Bottom line," said Maj. Camps, "our people need to look out for each other and avoid putting themselves in situations where they will become a victim." For more information, visit the US Embassy website and view their advisory at http://tokyo.usembassy.gov/e/acs/tacs-warden20090710.html.