A tragic incident at the Iwami Ginzan Silver Mine, a World Heritage Site in Shimane Prefecture, has concluded with no legal consequences for the city officials involved.
In March 2023, a 68-year-old woman from Aichi Prefecture fell into a river and died after a fence near Rakancho Bridge collapsed.
Two male city employees, aged in their 40s and 50s, were found to have been aware that the fence needed repairs but failed to take action.
They were investigated on suspicion of professional negligence resulting in death.
However, on the 11th of this month, the Matsue District Public Prosecutors Office decided to forgo prosecution, stating it was "the result of the investigation.
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The officials were responsible for managing the bridge and its surrounding facilities.
The accident occurred when the victim leaned against the deteriorated fence, which suddenly gave way, causing her fatal fall into the river.
This decision has sparked debate over whether administrative bodies should bear greater legal responsibility for public safety lapses.