A Myanmar national working in Japan under the specified skilled worker program is preparing to file a criminal complaint against a town assemblyman in Kyogoku, Hokkaido, according to 毎日新聞. The worker alleges the assemblyman grabbed him by the chest and challenged him, saying "If you have a complaint, say it."
The incident is part of a broader pattern of alleged abuse at an agricultural corporation in Kyogoku, 毎日新聞 reports. The worker held a press conference, with his remarks carried by NHK, saying he hopes "the same thing doesn't happen to others." He has also stated he is considering criminal charges over the alleged violence.
Additional reporting from TBS NEWS DIG indicates the worker was subjected to intimidation, including threats to send him back to Myanmar. The outlet noted that such threats carry particular weight for workers who bear debts and support their families back home. Audio recordings obtained by TBS reportedly captured verbal abuse.
