Key Facts
• Fuji TV employee arrested on June 23 for habitual online gambling.
• Suspect: Yoshitaka Suzuki, 44, head of variety show planning at Fuji TV.
• Gambling activities spanned 8 months, from September 2024 to May 2025.
• Total wagered amount: ¥170 million, with losses of approximately ¥10 million.
• Participated in baccarat and slot games on overseas online casinos.
• Previously disciplined by Fuji TV for gambling but continued the activity.
• Police charged him with “habitual gambling,” citing repeated offenses.
• Legal expert: Habitual gambling charges apply due to high frequency and large sums.
• Fuji TV pledged full cooperation with police and measures to prevent recurrence.
Summary
Yoshitaka Suzuki, a senior Fuji TV employee, was arrested for habitual online gambling, wagering ¥170 million over eight months. Despite prior disciplinary action by Fuji TV, Suzuki continued gambling on overseas platforms, leading to his arrest under “habitual gambling” charges. Legal experts highlighted the severity of his actions due to the frequency and scale of his bets. Fuji TV expressed regret and committed to cooperating with authorities and implementing preventive measures.
