Takeshi Niinami bought supplements in the belief that they were legal, says Jim Beam and Laphroaig owner
Business live – latest updates
Takeshi Niinami, one of Japan’s best-known business leaders, has resigned as chief executive of the drinks company Suntory after police raided his home as part of an investigation into suspected illegal supplements.
His resignation from the owner of the Jim Beam whisky brand has sent shockwaves through Japan’s corporate world, with Suntory executives attempting to reassure investors and consumers at a hastily arranged news conference.
The Tokyo Shimbun newspaper said police were investigating Niinami over a suspected violation of Japan’s strict cannabis laws. The executive, who has not commented publicly on the allegations, reportedly offered to resign after returning from an overseas trip on Monday.
