Because of their history as a legitimate feudal organization and their connection to the Japanese political system, Yakuza are almost a part of the Japanese establishment. There are even six fan magazines reporting on their activities! There have however been many anti-Yakuza campaigns and Yakuza are seen as outcasts.
After the Tōhoku earthquake and tsunami on 11 March 2011, the Yakuza responded quickly and efficiently to the needs of the victims of the natural disaster. They organized and sent hundreds of trucks filled with food, water, blankets, and sanitary accessories to aid the people in the affected areas. CNN Mexico reported that, although the Yakuza operates through extortion and other violent methods, they "moved swiftly and quietly to provide aid to those most in need."
Ironically, the Yakuza's code of honor (ninkyo) values justice and duty above anything else, and forbids allowing others to suffer. This is not quite in line with their involvement in sexual- and drug trafficking. They have 103 000 members worldwide.
