Japan’s public security authorities have officially identified the de facto leader of Aleph, the successor to the Aum Shinrikyo cult. This development signals heightened scrutiny of the group’s leadership and financial activities. Intelligence officials say the 31-year-old son of the cult’s founder now holds full operational control.
Since 2014, this individual gradually took on more responsibilities within the group. By 2017, he began presenting himself as a spiritual successor to core followers. Officials note that the de facto leader shaped Aleph’s internal rules, religious teachings, and legal defense strategies.
Moreover, Japan’s Public Security Intelligence Agency listed him in a recent administrative request. His mother, the founder’s widow, has also played an active supporting role. She helped coordinate logistical tasks and monitored members under internal review.
Investigators revealed new financial concerns tied to the leader’s influence. In April, a raid on his Saitama residence uncovered tens of millions of yen in cash. Authorities suspect Aleph redirected cult funds to support his household. Part of the income appeared to come from art sales connected to his mother. Officials believe this financial network has operated for several years.
As a result, the agency has requested an extension of current restrictions. These include six more months of bans on 16 Aleph facilities. The agency also seeks to block access to a newly designated cult site.
Aleph’s compliance with asset reporting remains incomplete. Reported assets plummeted from over ¥1 billion in 2019 to minimal levels in 2025. Officials suspect intentional concealment to avoid victim compensation.
Survivor groups, still unpaid decades later, urged the government to enforce court orders. With the 30th anniversary of the 1995 sarin gas attack approaching, concerns over public amnesia have grown.
Justice Ministry officials warn of renewed risks. They stress that Aleph’s ideology and recruitment still pose potential threats, especially to youth. The de facto leader continues to be viewed as the central figure in ongoing cult activities.
In conclusion, Japan remains focused on containing Aleph’s resurgence. Authorities now track the de facto leader closely while tightening oversight on the group’s assets and outreach.
