2019 in Suita (the stolen sidearm was recovered after an arrest in a manhunt). An initial suggestion was to prioritize the issue of special holsters that can easily protect an officer's sidearm from being easily taken. Other countries Small police stations similar to the Japanese kōban could most prominently also be found in Singapore, which are known as neighbourhood police centres (NPCs). Additionally, the kōban system has become popular with international police training and assistance programs, particularly those of the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA). JICA has invested money in establishing kōban-style community policing programs in several countries, including Indonesia, Brazil, and Honduras. In 2016, a kōban was built by the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) at The Grove Mall in Los Angeles, California, USA; the LAPD also operates a kōban in the Little Tokyo neighborhood. Services provided Police officers stationed at kōban serve several roles: Maps and directions – providing maps and directions to local addresses, sometimes even personally guiding those unfamiliar with local street layouts and addressing schemes. Additionally, officers can refer people to local hotels, restaurants, and other businesses. Lost and found – accepting reports of lost items and accepting found items from members of the public and, if a matching lost item is turned in, notifying the owner of the item to come pick up the item. Crime reports – taking police reports, typically for property crimes such as theft and burglary. Emergency services – dialing the emergency telephone number "110" in the case of police, fire, or medical emergency. Direct contact can be made with the kōban and assistance will be dispatched. See also Police box Okoban References External links Kōban etymology on Metropolitan Police Department website 1881 establishments in Japan Koban, Police Police stations in Japan