With the 2020 Olympics on the horizon, Tokyo is trying to eliminate blind spots in security linked to high-rise condominiums on the waterfront, where many of the events will be held.

A number of condos that are 50 or more stories high overlook Tokyo Bay. Equipped with auto-lock systems and surveillance cameras, the buildings are fortified against trespassing. But the same systems could obstruct law enforcement officers in need of emergency access.

"There's a risk that criminals could obtain access to the buildings," said Tetsuya Katsuta, deputy head of Tsukishima Police Station. "By taking advantage of the security systems, they could set up a hideout inside."