Japanese Doctor in U.S. to Be Arrested Over Naritasan Vandalism

Mar 04, 2026 | News On Japan

TOKYO - Police plan to arrest a Japanese doctor in his 60s who lives in the United States and is suspected of spraying an oil-like liquid at Naritasan Shinshoji Temple in Chiba Prefecture in 2015, with the suspect expected to arrive in Japan as early as March 4th, investigators said.

The case dates back to 2015, when an oil-like substance was sprayed on structures designated as important cultural properties at Naritasan Shinshoji Temple in Chiba Prefecture as well as Katori Shrine. Police obtained an arrest warrant for the suspect, a Japanese doctor residing in the United States, on suspicion of damaging buildings.

According to investigators, the suspect is expected to be handed over to Japanese authorities soon and could arrive in Japan as early as March 4th, where police plan to place him under arrest.

The Chiba Prefectural Police have already dispatched investigators overseas and are preparing to take custody of the suspect before transporting him to Japan for further investigation.

Source: TBS

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