🔗 Share this article Dramatist Jeremy O. Harris Arrested in the island nation for Suspected Drug Smuggling U.S. thespian and writer Jeremy O Harris, renowned for the Tony-nominated production Slave Play, was taken into custody in November at an airport in Japan on allegations involving trying to bring in controlled substances into the country, authorities announced. Details of the Airport Apprehension Harris, 36, was stopped on 16 November at Naha airport, situated in Okinawa, after a border inspection agent found 0.78 grams of a crystalline substance laced with the designer drug MDMA in his tote bag, according to a customs spokesperson. He was promptly taken into custody on suspicion of violating Japan’s strict Narcotics and Psychotropics Control Act. Regional customs officials filed a criminal accusation with the prosecutor’s office to initiate formal charging proceedings against the playwright. Current Status and Legal Representation A police official in Tomigusuku, Okinawa, confirmed that Harris is still being held. The official did not elaborate on whether Harris has admitted to the allegations. At this time, it is unclear whether the figure has secured a defense attorney in Japan. Requests for comment to his representatives were not immediately returned. Travel Itinerary and Destination Authorities stated Harris had arrived in Okinawa for sightseeing purposes, having traveled from Britain with a layover in Taiwan. Okinawa is a frequent tourist spot south-west of Tokyo, famous for its coastlines and military installations. Context: Japan's Strict Narcotics Policies Japan enforces some of the most severe drug laws among developed nations. Having or trafficking even small amounts of banned drugs typically leads to legal proceedings. 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 zero-tolerance policy regarding narcotics crimes. Notable Past Cases Foreign nationals arrested in Japan for alleged drug offences in the past include former Australian rugby league player Blake Ferguson in 2021. In a historic 1980 case, former Beatle Paul McCartney was detained after arriving in Tokyo with marijuana and was afterwards banned from entering the country for a period of time. Career Background Beyond his theatrical work, Jeremy O Harris is recognized for his acting role in the series Emily in Paris and for producing the HBO drama Euphoria.