Tokyo International News Agency

Takeshi Niinami, Chairman of Suntory Holdings (HD), is reportedly intending to resign from his position after being investigated by police authorities on suspicion of violating the Cannabis Control Act. Multiple sources revealed this information to the Tokyo Shimbun. According to reports, Niinami's home was searched by the Fukuoka Prefectural Police on September 22. The investigation reportedly concerns supplements containing 'tetrahydrocannabinol (THC),' an illegal cannabis-derived component imported from overseas. It is believed that the suspicion against Niinami evolved from an investigation at Mojiko Port in Fukuoka. While Niinami himself denies any involvement in the case, the unprecedented situation of a top executive of a listed company being investigated on suspicion of illegal drug use has sent shockwaves through the business community. Following this announcement of resignation, attention is also turning to Niinami's past remarks and actions. Two years ago, he...

Suntory Holdings (HD) announced on the 2nd that it would hold an emergency press conference from 3 PM on the same day. President Nobuhiro Torii and Vice President Kenji Yamada are scheduled to attend the conference, but a public relations representative stated, "We cannot comment on the content at this time," leading to various speculations circulating on social media regarding its specific nature. Following the company's announcement, "Emergency Press Conference" became a trending topic on X (formerly Twitter), with users successively commenting, "The mystery deepens" and "Is it good news or bad news?" Predictions about the conference's content range widely, from positive business developments like an initial public offering (IPO) or a capital alliance (TOB) with another company, to executive misconduct, product price revisions, or even new product announcements. In particular, some voices speculated on negative content, such as "Th...