Kochi Prefectural Police arrested 46-year-old Yoshihisa Sugio for allegedly disposing of the body of 47-year-old Seiko Ohtani in a mountainous area of Shikokuchuo City, Ehime Prefecture. Sugio reportedly admitted to the charges, stating, "There's no mistake about it." Authorities have indicated they are also exploring the possibility of murder charges as Sugio hinted at involvement in Ohtani's death.

Ohtani disappeared in September last year and was reported missing by her relatives in November, leading to the discovery of her car in Okayama City. Surveillance footage showed a person believed to be Sugio near the car, raising further suspicion regarding his connection to her disappearance. The investigation intensified after Ohtani's body was found on January 31 this year, following Sugio's confession on the location of the remains.

Earlier this year, Sugio was arrested by police for using Ohtani's smartphone to make purchases using her mobile payment app shortly after her disappearance. This incident has drawn attention to potential fraudulent activities involving the deceased's belongings, in addition to the ongoing investigation into her death, highlighting a disturbing case that raises questions about safety and accountability in personal relationships in Japan.