Japanese man kills boss over bonus reduction

Police in Japan have arrested a 45-year-old man on suspicion of murdering his boss after becoming dissatisfied with his treatment at work, including a reduction in his bonus, MS News writes.

Masahiro Yamanaka was arrested on Jan. 9 for allegedly stabbing Akihiro Kawashima, 44, more than 10 times at the latter’s apartment in Tokyo’s Ota Ward.

Kawashima was the president of an audio equipment company where Yamanaka worked as head of sales.

According to the Metropolitan Police Department, the two men were high school classmates and long-time friends before becoming employer and employee.

During police questioning, Yamanaka admitted to stabbing Kawashima but claimed he did not intend to kill him.

“I was dissatisfied with his attitude,” Yamanaka reportedly told investigators. “When I went to voice my opinion, he became enraged and we got into a scuffle.”

Investigators said Yamanaka brought a fruit knife with him and stabbed Mr Kawashima in the neck, thigh, and other parts of his body.

Kawashima sustained more than 10 stab wounds, and police believe there was strong intent to kill based on the nature of the injuries.

Police later revealed that Yamanaka had specifically complained about his compensation at work.

He told investigators that a bonus which had previously amounted to 1.5 months’ salary had been reduced to one month, and that no explanation was given for the cut.

Police believe he had been harbouring growing resentment over his pay and treatment at the company.