Govt Begins Special Probe of Japan Post over Improper Driver Checks

   Tokyo, April 25 (Jiji Press)--The Japanese transport ministry launched Friday a special audit of Japan Post Co. over improperly conducted mandatory alcohol and health checks on delivery drivers.
   The audit, based on the motor truck transportation business law, started after it was learned that 75 pct of post offices offering collection and delivery services across the country had improperly conducted checks. The ministry will consider administrative punishments after carrying out probes.
   Investigators conducted an on-site investigation Friday at the Takanawa post office in Tokyo's Minato Ward, with six officials from the Kanto District Transport Bureau entering the office's main entrance at around 10 a.m.
   The special audit covers legal compliance in general, so authorities will also search for possible violations other than on the checks.
   Japan Post said Wednesday that improper checks had taken place at 2,391 offices across all 13 of its regional branches, out of the 3,188 offices handling collection and delivery services nationwide.

(2025/04/25-17:10)