Two American Women Arrested in Japan Over Alleged $1 Million Cannabis Smuggling

TOKYO, Japan — Tokyo police have arrested two American women accused of attempting to smuggle approximately 30 kilogrammes of cannabis into Japan in suitcases, authorities and Japanese media reported Friday.

The women, both aged 25, reportedly arrived at Haneda Airport from New York last Saturday. Police said officers discovered dried plants believed to be cannabis concealed inside two suitcases.

A Tokyo police spokesperson told AFP that the pair allegedly acted in coordination with an unidentified person.

The seized cannabis was estimated to be worth around 150 million yen ($970,000), according to Japanese media reports.

Suspects Give Different Accounts

One of the women reportedly told investigators that she accepted the job for financial reasons and because she was attracted by the opportunity to travel to Japan at no cost.

According to Nippon TV, the woman told police she was motivated by the money and the prospect of a free trip to Japan.

The second suspect has denied knowing about the alleged contraband.

The Tokyo Shimbun, citing unnamed police sources, reported that she told investigators she did not know cannabis was inside the suitcase.

The differing accounts are now expected to form part of the police investigation as authorities seek to establish how the drugs were obtained, who organised the alleged shipment and the intended destination of the cannabis.

Japan Has Strict Drug Laws

Japan is known for its strict approach to illegal drugs, with possession and smuggling carrying potentially severe criminal penalties.

Police said the women were arrested on suspicion of violating Japan's drugs and psychotropics control legislation, specifically allegations of smuggling narcotics for profit.

The suspects are also alleged to have violated two other laws, according to the police spokesperson.

Under Japanese law, cannabis smuggling for profit can carry a prison sentence of up to 10 years, as well as a fine of up to 3 million yen ($19,500).

Investigation Continues

Police are continuing to investigate the alleged smuggling operation and the unidentified person they believe may have been involved.

Authorities are expected to examine the women's travel arrangements, communications and the circumstances surrounding the suitcases as they seek to determine whether the pair knowingly participated in the alleged operation.

The arrests also highlight the significant legal risks faced by travellers attempting to transport controlled substances into Japan, where drug offences can result in lengthy prison sentences.

The women have been accused but have not been convicted, and the allegations will be subject to the Japanese legal process.