Charges of Drug Possession and Use
Japanese top actress Ryoko Yonekura (51) has been referred to the prosecution on charges of drug possession and use.
According to Japanese media outlets such as FNN Prime Online on January 20, Ryoko Yonekura was recently referred to the prosecution on suspicion of violating drug control laws.
According to reports, the Kanto-Shinetsu Regional Bureau of Health and Welfare's Narcotics Control Department launched an internal investigation after receiving information in June last year that Ryoko Yonekura had used drugs with an acquaintance, an Argentine national. Subsequently, in the summer of last year, the authorities conducted a search and seizure at the residences associated with the two individuals.
During the search, a substance believed to be drugs was confiscated, and it was later confirmed through analysis to be an illegal drug.
The Argentine national in question has already left the country. The Narcotics Control Department is said to have continued its investigation, considering the possibility of joint possession and seeking to determine the owner of the drugs.
In December last year, Ryoko Yonekura stated on her agency's website, "It is true that investigative authorities entered my residence, as reported in some media," adding, "I will continue to cooperate with the investigation, but I believe that, to some extent, matters have been clarified through my cooperation so far."
The Tokyo District Public Prosecutors Office is reportedly reviewing whether to take further action after receiving the case documents.
Born in 1975, Ryoko Yonekura is an actress known for playing professional female characters. She has especially risen to national stardom through her roles in dramas such as "Doctor-X," "Monster Parent," and "The Journalist."
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