Japan Acquits Longest-Serving Death Row Inmate After 58 Years

Iwao Hakamada, an 88-year-old former boxer, was found not guilty of a 1966 quadruple murder due to fabricated evidence and coerced confession.

Hakamada spent 46 years on death row, setting a Guinness World Record for the longest-held death row inmate.
The Shizuoka District Court ruled that key evidence against Hakamada was planted and his confession was coerced through violent interrogation.
Hakamada's case has highlighted severe flaws in Japan's criminal justice system, including a 99% conviction rate and the practice of 'hostage justice.'
His acquittal marks only the fifth time a death row inmate has been exonerated in postwar Japan, sparking debate about the future of capital punishment in the country.
Hakamada's sister, Hideko, who campaigned tirelessly for his release, expressed immense relief and joy following the court's decision.