🔗 Share this article Playwright Jeremy O. Harris Detained in the island nation for Alleged Drug Smuggling U.S. thespian and writer Jeremy O Harris, renowned for the Tony-nominated production Slave Play, was taken into custody last month at an airport in Japan on allegations involving trying to bring in controlled substances into the country, officials stated. Details of the Airport Incident 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 synthetic narcotic MDMA in his tote bag, as stated by a customs spokesperson. He was immediately arrested on suspicion of breaching Japan’s stringent 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 Representation A police official in Tomigusuku, Okinawa, confirmed that Harris is still being held. The official declined to comment on whether Harris has admitted to the charges. At this time, it is unclear whether the figure has secured a defense attorney in Japan. Inquiries to his representatives were not immediately returned. Journey Details and Location Reports indicate Harris had arrived in Okinawa for tourism, journeying from Britain via a connecting flight in Taiwan. Okinawa is a popular resort destination to the southwest of Tokyo, known for its coastlines and military installations. Context: Japan's Strict Drug Laws Japan enforces some of the most severe narcotics regulations among developed nations. Having or trafficking even small amounts of illegal substances typically leads to criminal prosecution. Penalties are harsh, though less draconian as in some other Asian nations where drug offences can result in the capital punishment. The country has a established strict enforcement policy regarding narcotics crimes. High-Profile Precedents Foreign nationals detained by Japan for alleged drug offences in the past include ex- Australian rugby league player Blake Ferguson in 2021. In a famous 1980 case, former Beatle Paul McCartney was detained after landing in Tokyo with marijuana and was subsequently barred from the country for years. Career Background Beyond his theatrical work, Jeremy O Harris is also known for his acting role in the series Emily in Paris and for producing the HBO drama Euphoria.