Japanese actor Nijiro Murakami has been referred to prosecutors after police concluded an investigation into allegations that he assaulted his former girlfriend. The development marks the latest stage in a case that has attracted widespread attention in Japan because of the actor’s profile in film and television. Prosecutors will now determine whether formal charges should be filed.
Murakami, who gained international recognition for his role as Chishiya in Netflix’s Alice in Borderland, is alleged to have assaulted the woman during multiple incidents at his home in Tokyo. Japanese media reported that the alleged incidents took place over several months during their relationship. Police began investigating after the woman filed a complaint.
According to Japanese reports, investigators concluded their inquiry before referring the case to prosecutors for further review. Under Japan’s legal system, such a referral does not automatically result in criminal charges. Prosecutors are responsible for deciding whether the available evidence supports moving the case to trial.
Local media reported that Murakami acknowledged causing injuries during questioning while maintaining that some aspects of the allegations differed from the complainant’s account. Authorities have not released further details about the evidence gathered during the investigation. Prosecutors have also not indicated when a decision on the case may be announced.
The allegations have prompted renewed public attention towards the actor, whose performances in both film and television have earned critical acclaim in Japan. Outside Japan, Murakami became widely known through Alice in Borderland, one of Netflix’s most successful Japanese productions. The series introduced his work to audiences across Asia, Europe and North America.
Neither prosecutors nor police have publicly commented beyond confirming the procedural status of the investigation. Murakami’s representatives have also not issued a detailed public statement following the referral. The case remains under review while prosecutors consider the next legal steps.
Cases involving high-profile entertainers often receive extensive media coverage in Japan, particularly when they progress beyond the investigation stage. Legal experts note that referrals to prosecutors are a routine part of the criminal justice process and should not be interpreted as a finding of guilt. A decision on prosecution is expected after prosecutors complete their assessment of the evidence.
Murakami has continued to be recognised internationally for his work in Japanese cinema and television, although the legal proceedings are likely to draw increased scrutiny over the coming weeks. Any decision to prosecute, or not to prosecute, will determine how the case proceeds through Japan’s criminal justice system.
