Local media reports have sparked an investigation by Japanese police into international footballer, Junya Ito, following allegations of sexual assault by two women, which he denies.
A police spokesman in Osaka, responsible for handling sexual assault cases, confirmed that a criminal complaint has been filed against Ito, prompting an inquiry. However, specific details regarding the nature of the complaint were not disclosed.
Ito is currently representing Japan at the Asian Cup in Qatar.
The alleged incident involving the two women is said to have occurred at a hotel in Osaka in June of the previous year, following a friendly match between Japan and Peru, according to media sources.
The midfielder, as reported by Kyodo news agency, has refuted the accusations, with his lawyer stating that the claims are baseless. The lawyer further emphasized the lack of coherence in the women’s testimonies and the absence of supporting physical evidence.
When questioned about Ito’s participation in the team, national coach Hajime Moriyasu responded that he was not fully informed about the allegations and would address the matter after conducting a thorough review.
Although being named in the matchday squad, the 30-year-old did not play in Japan’s 3-1 victory over Bahrain in the round of 16, advancing them to the quarter-finals.
AFP