The Fukuoka District Court has handed suspended prison sentences to a Chinese couple convicted of illegally building a campsite within the nationally protected Dazaifu archaeological site, NHK reports.
Between May and October 2023, Liu Xiaoqing and her husband Li Yong developed land without the owner’s consent inside the historic Ōnojō Castle ruins. The court condemned the couple for continuing construction despite repeated warnings from prefectural and municipal authorities and for misleading officials.
Judge Tanoi Kurato ruled the actions showed a disregard for public interest, noting the large scale of land alteration and the extended duration of operation. However, the couple received two-year prison terms, suspended for five years, due to restoration efforts at the site. Source: NHK
Stay informed with the latest Fukuoka & Kyushu news and events in English. Sign up for our free weekly newsletter today and never miss a beat. Opt out anytime, your privacy is our priority. Get the inside scoop with The Now
Summaries based on public content, errors may occur during translation. Images credited independently. Send feedback using this form.