The Unification Church in Japan, which authorities are trying to disband over allegations it extorted large donations from its followers, has pledged 10 billion yen (about $67 million) to compensate victims. TV channel reports this NHK.
Lawmakers are discussing how to preserve assets to compensate victims after Japanese authorities filed a lawsuit in Tokyo District Court to disband the organization. They fear that these assets may be transferred to other organizations or transferred abroad without a court decision.
The Unification Church expressed its desire to transfer to the government a fund created from allocated funds that would consider requests for payment of compensation. According to Asahi newspaper, the organization’s management also plans to hold a press conference and apologize to its followers. According to Asahi, the decision may be an attempt to demonstrate the organisation’s reformist stance, strengthen its position in court hearings and prevent its followers from escaping.
“Unification Church” accused Blackmailing followers who are forced to donate and buy goods from the organization itself. The material damage caused is estimated to be approximately 2.4 billion yen (approximately 16 million dollars). During the year, investigators collected about 5 thousand pieces of evidence confirming the illegal actions of the Unification Church.
If the Tokyo District Court accepts the claim, the Unification Church will lose its status as a religious organization and its benefits, including tax breaks.
previous media WroteThe mother of former Japanese Prime Minister Abe’s killer was revealed to be a member of the Unification Church.