🔗 Share this article Dramatist Jeremy O Harris Detained in Japan for Alleged Narcotics Trafficking U.S. thespian and writer Jeremy O Harris, renowned for the Tony-nominated production Slave Play, was taken into custody in November at an international terminal in Japan on allegations involving 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 found 0.78 grams of a crystal material containing the synthetic narcotic MDMA in his personal bag, as stated by a official statement. He was immediately arrested on suspicion of violating Japan’s stringent Narcotics and Psychotropics Control Act. Local customs officials filed a criminal accusation with the public prosecutor to commence formal charging proceedings against the individual. Present Situation and Legal 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. Presently, it is not known whether the figure has secured legal representation in Japan. Requests for comment to his representatives were not immediately returned. Travel Itinerary and Destination Reports indicate Harris had traveled to Okinawa for sightseeing purposes, having traveled from Britain with a layover in Taiwan. Okinawa is a frequent tourist spot to the southwest of Tokyo, known for its coastlines and military installations. Context: Japan's Strict Narcotics Policies Japan maintains some of the toughest drug laws among industrialized countries. Possession and smuggling even small amounts of banned drugs typically results in criminal prosecution. Punishments are severe, though less draconian as in some other Asian nations where drug offences can carry the death penalty. The country has a long-standing zero-tolerance policy regarding drug-related crimes. High-Profile Past Cases International visitors detained by Japan for alleged drug offences in recent years include former Australian rugby league player Blake Ferguson in 2021. In a famous 1980 case, ex-Beatles member Paul McCartney was arrested after arriving in Tokyo with marijuana and was afterwards banned from entering the country for a period of time. Professional Highlights Beyond his theatrical work, Jeremy O Harris is also known for his acting role in the series Emily in Paris and for producing the HBO drama Euphoria.