Shikoku Electric Power employee dies amid power harassment allegations

A 19-year-old employee of Shikoku Electric Power Transmission and Distribution died after falling approximately 40 meters from a transmission tower in Kamikatsu, Tokushima Prefecture, on September 9.

Following the incident, the victim's family revealed a suicide note indicating that the young man had been subjected to severe power harassment. The note contained verbal abuse from senior colleagues, including insults such as “you are incompetent,” “you are stupid,” and “just die.” The victim also noted being forced to consume foods he was allergic to during company social gatherings and expressed frustration with colleagues who witnessed the abuse but failed to intervene.

Shikoku Electric Power Transmission and Distribution is currently investigating the facts regarding the alleged harassment. The case has raised significant questions regarding the effectiveness of corporate compliance systems, as the company had established consultation windows and a mentor program that failed to prevent the situation or provide a safe way for the new employee to report the abuse.