Katsuhiko Kuwano, 37, chief guard of the detention house, was arrested Aug. 19 on suspicion of receiving bribes, while Seiki Kin, 66, boss of a gang affiliated with the nation's largest crime syndicate, the Yamaguchi-gumi, and a senior member of the group were arrested the same day for allegedly offering the bribes.

The police searched for evidence Aug. 20 at related locations, including Kuwano's residence in Takarazuka, Hyogo Prefecture, and Kin's house in Osaka.

Kuwano is suspected of receiving roughly ¥200,000 to cover the cost of a visit he made with his family to Tokyo Disney Resort and a four-day stay at Atami, Shizuoka Prefecture by Kin, and is suspected of receiving a car in 2004.

Kin was arrested June 4, 2004, on suspicion of attempted extortion against a dentist in Osaka Prefecture and was held at the Osaka Detention House from early July until he made bail July 29 that year.

The Japan Times Weekly: Aug. 26, 2006
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