• She stole tuna slices and fish bones from the market
• She used them to cook meals for customers

Japanese police arrested a 66-year-old restaurant owner on charges of stealing 30 kg of fish bones and serving them to customers.

According to police reports, the woman, known as Wu, was accused of theft and illegal entry into a market building in the Tsukiji market on November 21, where she stole tuna slices and their bones.

Surveillance cameras revealed her arriving by bicycle at the collection point for fish bones, where she placed them in the bicycle basket.

It was reported that Wu was seen stealing again on November 22, and she was arrested after appearing for the third time in the market four days later.

Wu and her husband run a Chinese restaurant serving sashimi and Chinese seafood dishes.

She frequently visited the market to get supplies and knew where the leftover bones were stored.

The stolen bones were intended to be converted into fish feed, but Wu told the police that she believed the fish was still safe to eat if cooked, so she turned some into meatballs and ate part of it, and grilled some to serve to customers.

Wu’s restaurant is known for its large portions, low prices, and the cheerful and friendly personality of its owner.