Japanese Producer Accused of Unlawful Acts With Underaged Idol

Takumi Sanada (40), a renowned Japanese underground idol group producer, is under fire for being arrested on suspicion of violating the Child Welfare Law.

On the 22nd (local time), broadcaster TBS reported that Sanada, who had been producing an idol group, was arrested. It was revealed that he had committed indecent acts against one of the group members, who was then only 17 years old.

Sanada is accused of using his position as a producer to call a high school girl, who was an active idol, to a hotel in Tokyo and committing indecent acts several times, despite knowing she was a minor, between February and March.

Sanada, a married man, did not hesitate to tell the underage idol, “I like you,” “I will divorce my wife, so date me,” and “Let’s get married when you graduate from being an idol.” It was reported that he made her develop romantic feelings through gaslighting and then committed indecent acts.

Sanada’s side argued that their relationship became closer during discussions related to the idol’s activities, but the victim and her parents deny this. Despite receiving a warning from the girl’s father to end the relationship, it was revealed that Sanada continued his actions. It was confirmed that the victim’s parents reported the incident to the police after becoming aware of the harm done to their daughter.

During the police investigation, Sanada admitted to the indecent acts against the underage idol but denied some allegations, saying, “I never used my position as a producer.”

Meanwhile, Takumi Sanada produced the five-member idol group COMIQ ON!, which debuted in 2022. There are rumors that the victim might be the 17-year-old member who recently stopped live activities due to poor health. However, as there is another 17-year-old member in COMIQ ON!, it remains unclear whether the member who stopped activities is the victim.