Local authorities in Japan have discovered the decomposing body of an unidentified woman in a river, prompting an intensive investigation. The advanced state of decomposition has complicated immediate identification efforts, including establishing the age of the deceased. Further forensic investigations are underway to uncover the woman's identity and the circumstances surrounding her demise.

Japan maintains a highly efficient law enforcement system and missing person reports are treated with utmost urgency. Citizen safety is a top priority and such incidents are often matters of public concern. The Japanese also place a great deal of emphasis on respect for the deceased, and are generally supportive of exhaustive efforts to identify victims and notify their families.

Similar to Japan, in the U.S. and EU, the discovery of unidentified remains initiates comprehensive investigation procedures. Law enforcement agencies employ forensic science tools for identification and determination of cause of death. Unsolved cases also generate public interest and are frequently reported by the media.