In a tragic tourist boat accident off Hokkaido in 2022, 20 people lost their lives and six are still missing. The families of 14 victims are planning to file a damages suit against the ship operator, Shiretoko Yuransen, and its president, Seiichi Katsurada. The lawsuit, to be filed on July 3 with over 1 billion yen in damages sought, aims to hold those responsible for the fatal incident.
The 19-ton boat, Kazu I, sank on April 23, 2022, despite bad weather forecasts as it sailed around the Shiretoko Peninsula. The lack of apology or accountability from the operator has prompted the families to take legal action to ensure that the memory of the accident is not forgotten.
The purpose of the lawsuit is not only to seek justice for the victims’ families but also to raise awareness about the need for stricter safety measures to prevent such tragedies in the future. While there is consideration to also sue the state and the Japan Craft Inspection Organization for inadequate inspections, the primary focus remains on holding the ship operator accountable.
The Japan Coast Guard is investigating Katsurada for professional negligence resulting in death, highlighting the severity of the situation and the urgency for justice.
© KYODO