🔗 Share this article Dramatist Jeremy O Harris Arrested in the island nation for Alleged Narcotics Trafficking American actor and playwright Jeremy O Harris, best known for the award-contending production Slave Play, was detained in November at an international terminal in Japan on suspicion of trying to bring in controlled substances into the country, authorities announced. Details of the Customs Apprehension Harris, 36, was intercepted on 16 November at Naha airport, located on Okinawa, after a border inspection agent found 0.78 grams of a crystal material containing the designer drug MDMA in his tote bag, as stated by a customs spokesperson. He was promptly taken into custody on suspicion of violating Japan’s strict Narcotics and Psychotropics Control Act. Regional customs officials lodged a formal complaint with the public prosecutor to commence legal action against the individual. Present Situation and Judicial Counsel A law enforcement representative in Tomigusuku, Okinawa, confirmed that Harris is still being held. The official did not elaborate on whether Harris has admitted to the charges. Presently, it is not known whether the artist has retained a defense attorney in Japan. Requests for comment to his representatives were not immediately returned. Journey Details and Destination Authorities stated Harris had traveled to Okinawa for tourism, having traveled from Britain with a layover in Taiwan. Okinawa is a frequent tourist spot to the southwest of Tokyo, known for its beaches and U.S. bases. Context: Japan's Strict Drug Laws Japan enforces some of the most severe narcotics regulations among developed nations. Possession and smuggling even minute quantities of illegal substances typically leads to criminal prosecution. Punishments are severe, though less draconian as in some other Asian nations in which drug offences can result in the death penalty. The country has a established strict enforcement policy towards narcotics crimes. High-Profile Past Cases International visitors arrested in Japan for alleged drug offences in recent years include former Australian rugby league player Blake Ferguson in 2021. In a famous 1980 case, former Beatle Paul McCartney was arrested after landing in Tokyo with marijuana and was subsequently barred from the country for a period of time. Professional Highlights Beyond his theatrical work, Jeremy O Harris is also known for his performance in the series Emily in Paris and for producing the HBO drama Euphoria.