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Tokyo's Horse Patrol Charms Kids for Safety
12 Apr
Summary
- Mounted police horses offer children rides at traffic safety events.
- The unit has a history of over 120 years, established in 1903.
- Fifteen retired racehorses now serve in the unit for safety education.
The Metropolitan Police Department's mounted unit is experiencing a surge in popularity, actively participating in traffic safety events across Tokyo. These horseback police, a division with over 120 years of history, are particularly effective in engaging with children during awareness campaigns.
Recently, the unit joined an event hosted by the Tama Chuo Police Station in Inagi city, focusing on accident prevention. Families lined up for a unique horseback riding experience with horses Tsubasa and Yuki, while children also enjoyed sitting on police motorcycles. This initiative aims to make learning traffic rules enjoyable.
Established in 1903, the mounted unit initially delivered messages. Today, fifteen retired racehorses serve the division, assisting with traffic safety education and dignitary protection. The unit's efforts are crucial, especially at the beginning of new school terms, a period identified by police chief Takeo Kanaoka as having higher accident risks due to unfamiliar environments.
In preparation for the national spring traffic safety campaign, the mounted unit also made appearances at events organized by several other police stations within Tokyo.
