New Delhi, January 10: In a case that has shocked Japan and drawn global attention, authorities have arrested a 26-year-old man under a rare 1889 anti-dueling law after a dispute over a board game escalated into a deadly fight in Tokyo’s bustling nightlife hub.

According to the Tokyo Metropolitan Police, the incident dates back to September in Kabukicho, part of the Shinjuku entertainment district.

Police say the suspect, Fuzuki Asari, and the victim, 30-year-old Naoya Matsuda, agreed to a “mutual combat” meeting to settle an argument that began during a board game. During the confrontation, Asari allegedly threw Matsuda to the ground, causing severe head injuries. Japan: Man Crashes Van Into PM Office, Throws Cocktails at Ruling Party Headquarters; Arrested (Watch Video).

Matsuda was hospitalized but died three weeks later on October 12 due to multiple organ failure linked to brain damage.

Why an 1889 Law Was Used

Instead of relying solely on modern assault or manslaughter provisions, prosecutors invoked Japan’s Duelling Prevention Law of 1889 - a statute dating back 137 years. The law defines a duel as an agreed act of violence to resolve a dispute and prescribes two to five years in prison for issuing or accepting such a challenge.

Investigators allege Asari conspired with another individual, a Mongolian national later deported for illegal residence, to help arrange the fight. Japan Shocker: Man Hides Spy Cameras in Fake Rocks, Secretly Films 1,000 Women Bathing in Hot Springs; Jailed for 2 Years.

Additional Charges Possible

Alongside the dueling charge, Asari may also face charges of causing death through involuntary injury, which carries a minimum three-year prison sentence under Japan’s penal code.

A Law From the Samurai Era

The anti-dueling statute was introduced during the Meiji Era to curb samurai-era practices of settling matters of honor through private combat. Its use in modern Japan is extremely rare. Notably, police in Gunma Prefecture cited the same law in October 2025 while arresting a high school student and an adult over a pre-arranged fight.

Suspect Expresses Remorse

Following his arrest, Asari reportedly told investigators, “I am deeply sorry that my opponent died.” Authorities have not disclosed which board game triggered the original dispute.

The investigation is ongoing as prosecutors finalize the charges in a case that underscores how a centuries-old law can still shape justice in modern Japan.

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(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jan 10, 2026 03:20 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).