Dentist Arrested in Tokyo for Illegal Practice During License Suspension

Japan: The Tokyo Metropolitan Police Department has announced the arrest of a 42-year-old male dentist, Ryohta Sekiguchi, who is also employed at an adult entertainment establishment in Kabukicho, Tokyo. The dentist has been apprehended on suspicion of violating the Dentists Act by performing dental treatments, including procedures for dental caries, while his dental practice license was under suspension. 

During this period, it is alleged that Sekiguchi conducted examinations on six male and female patients aged between their 20s and 60s, amounting to a total of 32 sessions at a clinic in Kabukicho.

Extent of Illegal Practice

Despite being ordered to suspend his dental practice license by the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare from August 10, 2022, to December 10, 2022, Sekiguchi is suspected of working as a dentist at a dental clinic located in Kabukicho, Shinjuku Ward. 

Authorities believe that the dentist provided medical treatment to more than 320 individuals over a span of approximately four months. Fortunately, no medical accidents have been reported thus far.

The specific name of the dental clinic has not been disclosed by the Division of Living Environment, as its revelation could impede the ongoing investigation. Authorities intend to examine whether the dental clinic had any involvement in the illicit activities.

Prior Conviction for Fraudulent Loan

It has been revealed that the arrested dentist previously faced legal consequences. In 2019, the Yokohama District Court, Odawara Branch, convicted Sekiguchi of fraudulently obtaining loan funds from a financial institution under the pretext of opening another dental clinic. 

As a result, he was sentenced to 2 years and 6 months of imprisonment, with the sentence suspended for a period of 3 years. Consequently, the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare, in accordance with the Dentists Act, imposed a three-year suspension of dental practice on Sekiguchi, effective from August 4, 2022.

During the course of the interrogation, Sekiguchi has admitted to the allegations made against him, stating that “There is no mistake.”

As the investigation progresses, the authorities will continue to gather evidence and ascertain the full extent of the dentist’s illegal practice, ensuring the protection of the public’s safety and welfare.