Mar 5 β€’ 03:35 UTC πŸ‡―πŸ‡΅ Japan Asahi Shimbun (JP)

Former sauna operator arrested for allegedly voyeuristic filming of customers claims 'it was for security purposes'

A former private sauna operator in Fukuoka has been arrested for allegedly filming customers in the nude, claiming that the act was intended for security.

In Fukuoka, Japan, police arrested Kazuhiko Ueyama, a 55-year-old former operator of a private sauna, on suspicion of violating laws against the illegal filming of individuals in private areas. The arrest occurred after an alleged incident where Ueyama reportedly used a concealed camera to film two customers in the nude at 'Sauna Yuba', a fully booked private sauna. Ueyama has partially denied the allegations, stating that the camera was installed for security reasons.

The incident allegedly took place on September 26 of the previous year, during the evening hours in the washroom area of the sauna. The camera, disguised as a clothes hook, was positioned in such a way that it captured the entire changing room. It was another customer who noticed the hidden camera and brought it to the attention of authorities, leading to an investigation. Among the evidence recovered was footage showing not only the two customers but also Ueyama manipulating the camera.

The sauna was taken over by Ueyama in February 2022 but transferred to another operator earlier this year. In his statements, Ueyama maintains that any captured footage of customers undressing was accidental, insisting his intentions were solely focused on securing the sauna's premises. This case raises serious concerns about privacy violations in private spaces and the responsibility of business owners to ensure the safety and respect of their customers.

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