🔗 Share this article Playwright Jeremy O Harris Detained in the island nation for Alleged Drug Smuggling American thespian and writer Jeremy O Harris, best known for the award-contending production Slave Play, was detained in November at an international terminal in Japan on suspicion of trying to bring in illegal drugs into the country, officials announced. Details of the Customs Incident Harris, 36, was intercepted on 16 November at Naha airport, located on Okinawa, after a customs officer discovered 0.78 grams of a crystalline substance containing the designer drug MDMA in his tote bag, according to a official statement. He was promptly taken into custody on suspicion of breaching Japan’s strict Narcotics and Psychotropics Control Act. Regional customs officials filed a criminal accusation with the prosecutor’s office to commence formal charging proceedings against the playwright. Current Status and Judicial Counsel A law enforcement representative in Tomigusuku, Okinawa, confirmed that Harris is still being held. The official did not elaborate on whether Harris has admitted to the charges. At this time, it is not known whether the artist has retained legal representation in Japan. Requests for comment to his representatives were not immediately returned. Journey Details and Location Authorities stated Harris had traveled to Okinawa for tourism, having traveled from Britain with a layover in Taiwan. Okinawa is a frequent tourist spot to the southwest of Tokyo, known for its coastlines and U.S. bases. Context: Japan's Strict Narcotics Policies Japan maintains some of the toughest drug laws among industrialized countries. Having or trafficking even small amounts of illegal substances typically results in criminal prosecution. Penalties are severe, though not as extreme as in some other Asian nations where drug offences can carry the capital punishment. The country has a long-standing zero-tolerance policy towards narcotics crimes. High-Profile Past Cases Foreign nationals detained by Japan for alleged drug offences in recent years include ex- Australian rugby league player Blake Ferguson in 2021. In a historic 1980 case, former Beatle Paul McCartney was arrested after landing in Tokyo with marijuana and was subsequently barred from the country for a period of time. Career Background Beyond his stage writing, Jeremy O Harris is recognized for his performance in the series Emily in Paris and for serving as a producer on the HBO drama Euphoria.