Asian News 7/19

China Crime Crackdown

In an effort to crack down on prostitution and drug use, China’s Ministry of Public Safety has enacted new rules for discos, nightclubs and other entertainment venues.

The new rules, which will go into effect October 1, direct such venues to enforce dress codes and install windows in private rooms.

According to the ministry’s Web site, all staff members of entertainment establishments "should dress tastefully and not expose too much." The purpose of the windows is to ensure that "the entire environment of the consumers’ entertainment area in a room can be seen."

Many entertainment venues in China offer private rooms for wealthier customers and businessmen hosting clients. Prostitutes are often part of the entertainment in these rooms.

Sumo Promoter Dies

Shigemitsu Inohana, a Japanese businessman who promoted sumo tournaments in Hawaii and Los Angeles, was found dead June 20 in a park near Waikiki Beach, Honolulu. The local medical examiner’s office determined that the 57-year-old had committed suicide by stabbing himself in the neck.

Inohana was the president and only employee of Dormtech Hawaii Inc., a tour guide service. However, he was mainly known for promoting the Los Angeles Grand Sumo tournament, which took place at the Los Angeles Sports Arena in early June.