Japanese Police Arrest Man In Biggest Online Gambling Case
In a groundbreaking case, Japanese authorities have detained an individual suspected of extensive online gambling activities, marking what is considered the country’s most significant investigation into betting-related offenses to date. Reports indicate that the accused, who is also an affiliate marketer, is alleged to have placed wagers totaling an astonishing ¥28 billion (approximately $200 million).
Breaking Down the Allegations Against Makoto Chomabayashi
The Tokyo Metropolitan Police have formally identified Makoto Chomabayashi as the subject of this high-profile investigation. His online gambling activities are particularly alarming, not only for the sheer scale of his bets but also for the fact that such practices are illegal in Japan.
Chomabayashi reportedly placed bets amounting to around ¥90 million (around $625,000) primarily on baccarat at the renowned global casino platform, Stake. The wagers are believed to have occurred over several months, specifically from August 2022 to April 2025, raising significant concerns among law enforcement officials.
Upon his arrest, Chomabayashi stated, “News reports suggested there were hundreds of thousands of players in Japan, leading me to believe I was merely the tip of the iceberg.”
Estimating the Scale: ¥28 Billion in Bets
The investigation is anticipating that Chomabayashi’s total wagers could far exceed initial estimates, potentially reaching ¥28 billion. To put this into perspective, one billion yen translates to approximately $7 million, illustrating the vast extent of alleged illegal online gambling activity traced to a single individual in Japan.
While these staggering figures underscore the scale of his operations, reports indicate that Chomabayashi likely incurred losses of around ¥40 million (approximately $280,000) during this period. Furthermore, he is suspected of operating as an affiliate marketer for Stake, leveraging engaging marketing strategies to attract new players.
Chomabayashi’s online presence, particularly on social media platforms like X, further corroborates his role as an affiliate marketer. Using the alias “Meikyo Shisui” (meaning “clear and serene mind” in Chinese), he is believed to have recruited over 100 new players, capitalizing on attractive bonuses and promotional campaigns offered by the casino.
Understanding Baccarat: The Game at the Center of the Controversy
It is essential to clarify what baccarat entails, as it was the primary game Chomabayashi engaged in. Baccarat is a popular card game in which players bet on whether the ‘player’ or ‘banker’ hand will have a total closest to nine. Characterized by its low skill requirement and high stakes, baccarat attracts a multitude of players seeking both thrills and substantial payouts.
The Legal Landscape of Online Gambling in Japan
Despite the individual’s significant online gambling activities, it is crucial to recognize that gambling regulations in Japan are stringent. The only legally permitted forms of gambling include horse racing, bicycle racing, auto racing, boat racing, and lotteries.
Online gambling remains illegal, with potential penalties including fines of up to ¥500,000 (about $3,000) and incarceration for up to three years. Nevertheless, a notable number of Japanese citizens continue to gamble online. According to a National Police Agency survey, approximately 3.37 million individuals in Japan have engaged with online casinos, with a staggering ¥1.24 trillion placed in bets annually. Alarmingly, the survey also revealed that nearly 40% of these users were unaware they were participating in illegal activities.
This case not only highlights the need for rigorous law enforcement in the digital betting arena but also underscores the importance of ensuring public awareness regarding the legal status of online gambling in Japan.
About the Author
Andy Newton is a seasoned betting and gambling journalist with over 20 years of industry experience. His expertise spans various aspects of sports betting and gambling news, but he is particularly renowned for his insights into horse racing.
