According to a report by the Japan Times, a man in Japan was sentenced to two years and four months in prison and fined 200,000 yen (approximately HK$17,920) for disrupting business and intentionally damaging property. The man, identified as Ryu Shimazu, a 35-year-old construction worker, committed the act at a Yoshinoya beef bowl restaurant in Osaka.
Shimazu intentionally used his own chopsticks, which he had previously put in his mouth, to pick up ginger from a shared container and ate it. He also had an accomplice film the prank and posted it online.
The judge described Shimazu’s actions as “selfish and malicious,” stating that he did not consider the impact of his behavior on the restaurant’s business and caused the restaurant to dispose of the contaminated ginger.
While Shimazu pleaded guilty and expressed remorse, the judge believed that he lacked moral values and needed to be held criminally responsible for his actions.
Shimazu’s accomplice, who filmed and posted the prank on social media, was also found to have violated the law and was fined 300,000 yen (approximately HK$26,880).
This incident highlights the importance of respecting public spaces and the property of others. Shimazu’s actions not only caused inconvenience to the restaurant but also potentially posed a health risk to other customers. It is important to be mindful of our behavior and actions, especially in public places, to ensure the safety and well-being of everyone.