Society

Prosecutors Seek Life Sentence for Ex-Wife in 'Don Juan' Murder Case

Wakayama, Nov 19 (News On Japan) - In the trial of a wealthy businessman, known as the 'Don Juan of Kishu,' who was murdered, prosecutors have called for a life sentence for the defendant.

Sudo Saki, 28, is accused of killing her husband, Nozaki Kosuke, then 77, in May 2018 by administering a fatal dose of stimulant drugs at their home in Tanabe City, Wakayama Prefecture. Sudo has maintained her innocence throughout the trial.

In their statement on November 18th, prosecutors argued that Sudo was not only present when Nozaki ingested the drugs but also had the opportunity to provide him with food or drink. They described the crime as highly premeditated and equated it to a robbery-murder, claiming it was carried out for the purpose of inheritance.

The defense, in their closing argument, questioned the prosecution's evidence, pointing out that Sudo’s internet search history showed no indications of her researching methods of administering stimulant drugs.

The verdict is scheduled to be delivered on December 12th.

Source: ANN

Osaka Expands Indoor Smoking Ban

From April 1st, a new regulation took effect across Osaka Prefecture requiring all restaurants with a customer seating area larger than 30 square meters to become entirely smoke-free indoors—unless they install a designated smoking room. Establishments violating the rule face fines of up to 50,000 yen, while customers may be fined up to 30,000 yen.

Japan's Imperial Household Launches YouTube Channel

The Imperial Household Agency launched an official YouTube channel on April 1st to introduce the activities of Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako.

New Recruits Across Japan Mark First Day as Working Adults

Japan's new fiscal year began on April 1st, with companies across the country holding entrance ceremonies to welcome new employees.

Death Toll Could Reach 298,000 in Nankai Trough Megaquake

The Japanese government has released an updated damage forecast for a potential Nankai Trough megaquake, estimating that up to 298,000 people could die in the worst-case scenario. This projection reflects a slight reduction from the previous estimate of 332,000 deaths made 13 years ago.

Tokyo's Cherry Blossoms Bloom Early This Year

The Japan Meteorological Agency announced on March 30th that cherry blossoms (Somei-Yoshino) in central Tokyo have reached full bloom, one day earlier than the historical average and five days earlier than last year.

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This Small Japanese Town Has Been a UFO Hotspot for 50 Years

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Police Ease Recruitment Requirements to Attract Mature Applicants

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Spring Break Meditation Teaches Kids Discipline and Focus

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Surge in Japanese Women Wearing Men's Suits

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