- Japanese police arrested Makoto Chomabayashi on May 30, 2025, for wagering ¥28 billion ($194M) on illegal online casinos, the largest individual gambling case in Japan’s history.
- Chomabayashi, an affiliate for platforms like KUBET, exposed widespread unawareness, with 40% of Japanese unaware online gambling is illegal, per an NPA survey.
- The $44.2 billion illegal betting market faces new laws by late 2025, potentially limiting offshore sites but risking debt for bettors, as 30% accrue it weekly.
The Record-Breaking Gambling Case
On May 30, 2025, Tokyo police arrested Chomabayashi, a resident of Iwaki, Fukushima Prefecture, for allegedly placing ¥28 billion in bets on overseas online casinos, including the KUBET platform, over several years.
Operating under the alias “Meikyo Shisui,” he’s also accused of promoting these illegal sites as an affiliate, earning commissions by recruiting players. The National Police Agency (NPA) flagged his activities during a broader probe into online gambling, which saw 279 arrests in 2024, a 160% spike from the prior year.
You can imagine the scale: this case alone dwarfs typical gambling busts, highlighting how deeply illegal betting has taken root in Japan.
Why This Case Stands Out
Japan bans most gambling, except state-run lotteries and limited sports betting, yet offshore platforms like KUBET thrive by targeting Japanese users with Japanese-language sites and social media ads.
Chomabayashi’s case is notable not just for its size but for exposing widespread ignorance—40% of 27,145 surveyed Japanese didn’t know online gambling was illegal, per an NPA report.
The Council for Sports Ecosystem Promotion estimates Japanese bettors spent ¥6.45 trillion ($44.2 billion) on foreign sites in 2024, with soccer bets leading at ¥2.9 trillion.
You might see why authorities are alarmed: such sums fuel addiction and financial crime, prompting a crackdown on players and promoters like Chomabayashi.
See also:
- Brazil Blocks Seven Sports Betting Operators Over Cybersecurity Failings
- Vietnam Busts AI-Driven Illegal Gambling Ring in Major Crackdown
- Brazilian Football Clubs Rally Against Bill Curbing Gambling Sponsorships
Impact on Japan’s Gambling Landscape
This arrest underscores Japan’s struggle to curb illegal online gambling, which lures 3.37 million users, including 1 in 5 young people who prioritize betting over bills.
The case could accelerate new laws proposed in May 2025 to restrict casino ads and penalize influencers, with fines up to ¥500,000 ($3,348) or three years in jail for repeat offenders.
For you, this might mean safer regulated options if Japan expands legal gambling, like its planned casino resorts, but stricter enforcement could limit access to offshore sites. Operators may face tougher scrutiny, especially as police collaborate with international agencies to target platforms in places like the Philippines and Malta.
The case also highlights risks for bettors, as 30% of offshore gamblers rack up debt within a week.
What’s Next for Japan’s Crackdown
Chomabayashi faces charges of illegal gambling and money laundering, with police probing his affiliate earnings and KUBET’s operations.
The NPA plans to intensify social media campaigns to raise awareness, following high-profile cases involving comedians and baseball players. A new bill, expected by late 2025, could give authorities more power to block offshore sites and target domestic organizers.
You might wonder how this will play out: will Japan’s $44.2 billion illegal betting market shrink, or will tech-savvy operators adapt?
With the government eyeing casino resorts to boost tourism, regulated gambling may grow, but for now, expect more arrests. Stick to legal betting options like horse racing to avoid trouble as Japan tightens the screws
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