🔗 Share this article Dramatist Jeremy O Harris Arrested in Japan for Suspected Drug Smuggling American actor and playwright Jeremy O Harris, best known for the award-contending production Slave Play, was detained in November at an international terminal in Japan on suspicion of attempting to smuggle illegal drugs into the country, authorities stated. Particulars Surrounding the Customs Apprehension Harris, 36, was stopped on 16 November at Naha airport, situated in Okinawa, after a customs officer discovered 0.78 grams of a crystalline substance laced with the designer drug MDMA in his tote bag, according to a official statement. He was promptly taken into custody on suspicion of breaching Japan’s stringent Narcotics and Psychotropics Control Act. Regional customs officials lodged a formal complaint with the public prosecutor to commence legal action against the individual. Present Situation and Legal Representation A law enforcement representative in Tomigusuku, Okinawa, confirmed that Harris is still being held. The official did not elaborate on whether Harris has admitted to the charges. At this time, it is not known whether the figure has retained legal representation in Japan. Requests for comment to his management team were not answered at once. Travel Itinerary and Location Reports indicate Harris had arrived in Okinawa for tourism, having traveled from Britain with a layover in Taiwan. Okinawa is a popular resort destination south-west of Tokyo, known for its beaches and U.S. bases. Background: Japan's Strict Drug Laws Japan maintains some of the toughest drug laws among developed nations. Having or trafficking even minute quantities of banned drugs typically results in criminal prosecution. Punishments are harsh, though not as extreme as in some other Asian nations where drug offences can result in the capital punishment. The country has a established strict enforcement policy towards drug-related crimes. High-Profile Past Cases International visitors detained by Japan for alleged drug offences in the past include former Australian rugby league player Blake Ferguson in 2021. In a historic 1980 case, ex-Beatles member Paul McCartney was arrested after landing in Tokyo with marijuana and was subsequently barred from the country for years. Professional Background Beyond his theatrical work, Jeremy O Harris is recognized for his performance in the series Emily in Paris and for producing the HBO drama Euphoria.