Tokyo —

Suntory Holdings chairman and CEO Takeshi Niinami has resigned following allegations that he purchased products containing THC, the psychoactive component of cannabis, the company confirmed Tuesday.

Niinami, 66, one of Japan’s most prominent and outspoken business leaders, said he believed the supplements he bought were legal. He has often served as the face of corporate Japan and frequently appeared on CNN.

Investigators had previously searched Niinami’s Tokyo home on suspicion he had received products containing cannabis-derived substances from an acquaintance overseas, according to public broadcaster NHK, citing investigative officials.

Police believe the items may have contained THC and are examining whether Niinami knew the substance is strictly regulated in Japan.

Niin

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