Headless female torso found floating at Yokohama's Yamashita Park

Police have launched a murder investigation after a headless female torso was discovered floating in waters near Yokohama's popular Yamashita Park on Saturday morning.

A passerby spotted the upper body floating near the preserved merchant ship Hikawa Maru around 10am and alerted authorities. The torso, missing both head and lower body, was recovered by police and fire department personnel.

Kanagawa Prefectural Police confirmed the victim was female, estimated to be between 20 and 50 years old. An initial autopsy suggested she died several months ago.

Investigators found no evidence of propeller damage or shark attacks, leading them to believe the dismemberment was deliberate.

A special investigation team of approximately 40 officers is working to identify the victim through DNA analysis while tracing her final movements and potential suspects.

Yamashita Park, located in Yokohama's central district near Chinatown and the city port, is a major tourist destination. The gruesome discovery has alarmed local residents and visitors alike.