Man Detained Due to 1889 Anti-Dueling Statute After Fatal Confrontation in Tokyo

CBS/AFP

In a historic application of a law dating back to 1889, Japanese police have arrested a man following a deadly altercation in Tokyo's red-light district, renowned for its vibrant nightlife and entertainment.

The encounter occurred in Kabukicho, part of the bustling capital, where, according to police spokesperson Mitsuhiro Hirota, the two individuals had consensually decided to engage in a fight.

On Wednesday, law enforcement authorities took Fuzuki Asari, a 26-year-old without employment, into custody. He stands accused of conspiring to duel and subsequently inflicting fatal injuries on his 30-year-old opponent, Naoya Matsuda.

Matsuda succumbed to multiple organ failure linked to head trauma, which he sustained on October 12 while hospitalized in the city, indicated the police.

This case is being overseen by the organized crime division of Tokyo's police department.

Post-arrest, Asari reportedly confessed to the charges, expressing regret for the death of his opponent.

Details regarding the use of weapons remain unclear. According to reports from the Tokyo Reporter, Asari and the deceased only met on the day of their confrontation.

The 1889 legislation prescribes imprisonment ranging from two to five years for those partaking in duels.

Additionally, Asari faces allegations of involuntary manslaughter, which could result in at least three years in prison under Japanese law.

While Japan seldom invokes the anti-dueling law, the Asahi Shimbun recently noted a similar case in Gunma, north of Tokyo, where arrests included a student and another man on duel-related charges.