🔗 Share this article Playwright Jeremy O. Harris Detained in Japan for Alleged Drug Smuggling U.S. actor and playwright Jeremy O Harris, best known for the award-contending production Slave Play, was taken into custody in November at an international terminal in Japan on suspicion of attempting to smuggle controlled substances into the country, authorities stated. Particulars Surrounding the Airport Apprehension The 36-year-old was stopped on 16 November at Naha airport, located on Okinawa, after a customs officer discovered 0.78 grams of a crystalline substance laced with the designer drug MDMA in his tote bag, as stated by a official statement. He was immediately arrested on suspicion of violating 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. Current Status and Judicial Counsel A police official in Tomigusuku, Okinawa, verified that Harris is still being held. The official did not elaborate on whether Harris has acknowledged the charges. At this time, it is not known whether the artist has retained legal representation in Japan. Inquiries to his representatives were not answered at once. Journey Details and Destination Reports indicate Harris had arrived in Okinawa for sightseeing purposes, journeying from Britain with a layover in Taiwan. Okinawa is a popular resort destination south-west of Tokyo, famous for its coastlines and military installations. Context: Japan's Rigorous Drug Laws Japan enforces some of the toughest drug laws among developed nations. Having or trafficking even minute quantities of illegal substances typically results in criminal prosecution. Penalties are severe, though less draconian as in some other Asian nations in which drug offences can result in the capital punishment. The country has a long-standing zero-tolerance policy regarding narcotics crimes. High-Profile Precedents International visitors detained by Japan for suspected drug offences in recent years include ex- Australian rugby league player Blake Ferguson in 2021. In a famous 1980 case, former Beatle Paul McCartney was arrested after arriving in Tokyo with marijuana and was subsequently barred from the country for a period of time. Professional Background Beyond his theatrical work, Jeremy O Harris is recognized for his acting role in the series Emily in Paris and for serving as a producer on the HBO drama Euphoria.