Prosecutors have effectively wrapped up their investigation into a former executive board member of the Tokyo Olympic and Paralympic organizing committee for allegedly accepting bribes worth almost 200 million yen. But as Haruyuki Takahashi continues to protest his innocence in this high-profile case, an all-out battle looms between his defense lawyers and prosecutors.
The special investigation squad of the Tokyo District Public Prosecutors Office has arrested Takahashi four times since Aug. 17 on suspicion of receiving bribes from various companies. As a quasi civil servant, Takahashi was not allowed to receive gifts or money in connection with his role on the committee. Multiple sources close to the office insisted the investigation had been worthwhile.
