[Illegal Online Casino Scandal] Exclusive Interview with “Reiwa Roman” Kuruma & “Toro Salmon” Kubota

Possibility of mass exposure

The ongoing investigations into Yoshimoto comedians continue. Journalist Tomohiko Suzuki, known for his extensive coverage of organized crime, also criticizes the company’s lack of crisis management awareness.

“Did they properly educate their performers through training sessions about the illegality of online casinos? Yoshimoto Kogyo was heavily criticized in the past for the black-market business scandal and should understand the importance of compliance. And yet, their approach remains too lax. The money from illegal casinos may ultimately be flowing to organized crime groups. Authorities will likely investigate the financial trail as well.”

The impact is not limited to Yoshimoto Kogyo alone. A manager from a talent agency with many mid-tier comedians revealed, “Our company has decided not to conduct a formal investigation, but on-site staff have begun questioning their assigned comedians.” Meanwhile, another manager from a long-established agency admitted, “We’re not investigating anything. Honestly, we’re too afraid to find out what might come up.”

As seen in the cases of Kuruma and Kubota, once involvement is uncovered, program cancellations and activity suspensions are inevitable. How will the investigation unfold as authorities aim to crack down on more users?

“The police are targeting so-called ‘intermediary operators,’ criminal groups responsible for everything from translating overseas online casino platforms to collecting money in Japan. If they obtain these operators’ customer lists, all users could be identified. If that happens, even more celebrities may be exposed.” (Law enforcement official)

The spread of illegal online casino involvement in the entertainment industry runs deep. Just how dark is this scandal?

From the March 7, 2025 issue of “FRIDAY”