According to reports from Japanese media on July 31, the incident took place in the early hours of April 5, around 5:30 a.m., after Imaichi Ryuji, a well-known member of the J-pop group Sandaime J Soul Brothers, had been out drinking. The case has since been referred to prosecutors by the Yoyogi Police Station of the Tokyo Metropolitan Police Department.
During the ride lasting about 10 minutes Ryuji allegedly punched the acrylic partition between the front and rear seats, grabbed the driver’s arm, and said, “I’ll kill you.” The driver, fortunately, did not suffer any injuries, but the verbal and physical aggression reportedly left a strong impression. Charges were officially filed that same day.
In statements made to the police, Ryuji admitted to being irritated after a prior argument before getting into the taxi. The singer was accompanied by an acquaintance during the ride.
The news has caused widespread shock among fans of Sandaime J Soul Brothers, a group under the EXILE TRIBE umbrella managed by LDH, one of Japan’s biggest entertainment agencies. Ryuji joined the group in 2010, following his win on Vocal Battle Audition 2: Yume o Motta Wakamono-tachi e, alongside fellow vocalist Tosaka Hiroomi.
This is not the first time Ryuji has faced controversy linked to alcohol-related behavior. In January 2020, tabloid Shukan Bunshun reported that he had allegedly thrown alcohol at a woman during an incident in Ishigaki, Japan, after meeting her at a karaoke bar.
As of now, neither Ryuji nor LDH Entertainment has released an official statement in response to the latest incident. Legal proceedings are expected to continue as prosecutors review the case.
Koreaboo
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