TOKYO: A Japanese finance ministry employee lost confidential documents after a night out with colleagues, local media reported.
The documents contained personal details of 187 individuals suspected of drug smuggling and marijuana seed distribution.
The incident occurred on February 6 in Yokohama, where the worker attended a five-hour gathering.
Reports state the employee consumed nine glasses of beer during the outing.
Bag Goes Missing
After the night out, the employee took a train home to Sumida, another city.
He only realized his bag was missing after getting off the train.
The bag contained classified ministry documents and personal business laptops.
Authorities have not disclosed the worker’s identity.
Ministry’s Response
Japan’s finance ministry issued a public apology following the incident.
The ministry acknowledged that the loss of documents damaged public trust.
Officials stated that measures would be taken to prevent similar incidents in the future.
Public broadcaster NHK first reported the ministry’s official response.
Confidential Information
The missing documents contained names and addresses of suspected drug smugglers.
Authorities also confirmed that recipients of marijuana seeds were listed.
Losing such sensitive data raises security concerns.
Officials have not confirmed whether any unauthorized access occurred.
Concerns Over Alcohol
Drinking is deeply embedded in Japan’s corporate culture.
Business discussions and negotiations often take place over alcoholic drinks.
Social drinking is seen as a way to strengthen professional relationships.
However, incidents like this highlight potential risks of excessive drinking.
Public Reaction
The case has sparked concerns about government employees handling sensitive data.
Many citizens expressed frustration over the lack of strict data security measures.
Some have called for stricter policies on alcohol consumption during official events.
Others worry about potential misuse of the missing information.
Future Precautions
Experts suggest stricter rules for carrying sensitive documents outside offices.
Some have proposed banning employees from taking classified files to social gatherings.
Companies and government agencies may tighten policies on alcohol consumption.
The finance ministry has yet to announce any specific policy changes.
