Japan's Yomiuri Giants players referred to prosecutors in online gambling case
Two players from the Yomiuri Giants, Louis Okoye and Daiki Masuda, have been referred to Japanese prosecutors by the Tokyo Metropolitan Police over allegations of illegal online gambling. According to The Mainichi report, the players are suspected of using offshore internet casino platforms, a practice prohibited under Japanese law.
Investigative sources reported that Okoye accessed overseas-operated online casinos via his smartphone on two separate occasions, July 2022 and May 2023, wagering around JPY7 million ($48,223). He reportedly ended up with a net loss of JPY4.5 million ($31,000). Masuda is alleged to have gambled in October and November 2024, betting approximately JPY3 million ($20,667) and losing JPY2.3 million ($15,844).
According to the local media report, both players are said to have used online platforms, including “Wonder Casino” and “Konibet,” and participated in games such as blackjack and baccarat. Following voluntary questioning by police, the players admitted to the accusations. The authorities submitted the case to prosecutors with no recommendation on whether to press charges.
The Yomiuri Giants confirmed the players came forward in February after the club encouraged anyone involved in online gambling to self-report. The team stated that both athletes expressed a desire to admit wrongdoing before the start of the professional season.
Broader gambling issues in Japanese baseball
This development is part of a wider pattern of online gambling cases affecting Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB). Earlier this year, the NPB imposed a collective fine of JPY10.2 million ($70,267) on 16 players from eight different teams for involvement in similar illegal activities. While no links to betting on baseball games have been found, the incidents raised concerns about player conduct and awareness of legal boundaries. The NPB has also assured fans that baseball’s integrity remains unaffected even if the recent revelations have highlighted the ongoing challenges of ensuring ethical conduct within the sport.
Last month, Orix Buffaloes’ pitcher Taisuke Yamaoka resumed training following his suspension for gambling at online casinos. According to a local media report, the Pacific League Club allowed the 29-year-old to return to training after he expressed remorse.
Japanese law strictly limits gambling, allowing only specific forms such as horse racing and government lotteries. Online casino gambling, even when accessed through overseas operators, is illegal. Legal action can be taken within three years of the offence, and consequences may include fines, suspensions, or even contract termination by clubs.
