Bikers campaign against child abuse in Tokyo

Gulf Today Report

In its tradition of hosting annual parade, members of the “Harley Santa Club”, a division of Harley Davidson bikers, rode across the streets of Tokyo in Santa Claus outfits to campaign against child abuse.

According to statistics, more children were endangered in 2020 due to the coronavirus pandemic that forced the world into lockdown. 

A biker getting ready for the parade. Reuters

Takashi Mine, director of the event said, "Especially because of the coronavirus pandemic this year, I think there are many child abuse cases out of sight."

The parade was followed by donation of toys to kids, it is an annual tradition during Christmas. 

Riders dressed as Santa Claus for the Xmas Toy Run parade. Reuters

Mine added that parents are likely to transfer their aggression on children following the loss of jobs, therefore, the importance of the parade during the pandemic.

In Japan, child abuses cases jumped by 20% between January and March against the same period last year, according to a report. 

Pet dogs join the parade. Reuters

Hundreds of riders usually partake in the parade, due to coronavirus only 100 riders participated.