A group of victims filed a lawsuit Thursday over a massive theft from Japan's virtual currency exchange Coincheck Inc., seeking the return of their cryptocurrencies worth 19 million yen ($178,000).

The move is the latest in a series of lawsuits filed by customers of the Tokyo-based bourse operator, which has been under fire for failing to properly safeguard against the theft of 58 billion yen worth of NEM currency in January.

Five individuals and two entities filed the lawsuit with the Tokyo District Court on Thursday, according to a group of lawyers supporting victims who lost their holdings of NEM currency.

According to the lawsuit, the plaintiffs had deposits with Coincheck of various virtual currencies, including NEM tokens and bitcoins, when the heist came to light on Jan. 26. They argue that their assets will "highly likely be damaged" as it remains unclear whether the company will reimburse its customers.

Coincheck has said it would compensate some 260,000 holders of NEM coins to the tune of 46 billion yen, but details have not been announced.

The company resumed yen withdrawals for its users on Tuesday following weeks of suspension triggered by the heist and said it completed the transfer of around 40.1 billion yen the same day.

It has also submitted to regulators a report vowing to improve its security system.

The group of lawyers said many customers are seeking advice on the issue and another lawsuit may be filed possibly later in the month.