Tokyo public prosecutors' efforts to unravel suspected irregularities involving Rikuzankai, the political funds management body of Democratic Party of Japan Secretary General Ichiro Ozawa, have taken a new turn.
On Wednesday, they searched the offices of Mr. Ozawa, Rikuzankai, Mr. Tomohiro Ishikawa — a DPJ Lower House member who is a former secretary of Mr. Ozawa — and general contractor Kajima Corp.
The prosecutors had questioned Mr. Ishikawa twice on a voluntary basis. Apparently they thought the search was necessary because his explanations were inadequate. Mr. Ozawa has not yet complied with prosecutors' Jan. 5 request that he voluntarily appear before them for questioning.