Misconduct in Japanese maritime agencies and operators

Investigations into Japanese maritime operations have revealed significant misconduct within both the Japan Coast Guard and the ferry operator Tokai Kisen.

The Japan Coast Guard reported that over 3,300 crew members improperly claimed travel allowances, totaling approximately ¥37 million in fraudulent payouts over three years. This led to disciplinary actions against 59 individuals, including the agency chief, with criminal prosecution under consideration.

Concurrently, Tokai Kisen faced scrutiny for maritime safety violations. Initial reports indicated the company was facing a potential business-suspension order due to crew members working while intoxicated and falsifying alcohol tests.

Subsequent investigations by the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism revealed that on New Year’s Day 2026, more than half of the crew and the captain on the vessels ‘Salvia Maru’ and ‘Tachibana Maru’ consumed alcohol during a party and immediately returned to duty without testing. These practices were reportedly a custom lasting at least 30 years. The company’s president admitted to being aware of these customs. As a result, the Kanto District Transport Bureau ordered the dismissal of the company’s safety manager and operations director.