Japanese Police Refer Boy Band Member Shion Tsurubo to Prosecutors Over Online Gambling

Incident Overview:

Shion Tsurubo, 24-year-old member of the boy band JO1, has been referred to prosecutors for his online gambling activities.
Tsurubo admitted to using an illegal online casino for several months but stopped after learning it was against the law.
Details of the Gambling:

Tsurubo developed an obsession with gambling, spending approximately 15 million yen (around $104,000) on the platform.
His gambling activity began in December 2023 and ceased in August 2024 once he was aware of its illegality.
Legal Context & Crackdown:

Online gambling is illegal in Japan, and authorities are actively cracking down on citizens involved in such activities, including prominent figures.
The police have called for “strict punishment” for Tsurubo, highlighting the country’s ongoing efforts to enforce anti-gambling laws.
Broader Issue:

An estimated 3 million Japanese engage in online gambling annually, spending trillions of yen.
Many players are unaware that these platforms are illegal, especially as some foreign websites mimic legitimate services with Japanese interfaces and local currency.
Efforts to Address Illegal Gambling:

Japan is seeking international cooperation to shut down overseas operators that target Japanese gamblers.
The government is working to raise awareness and combat illegal online gambling networks operating from abroad.