The chairman of Japanese whisky maker Suntory, Takeshi Niinami, has stepped down from his position following a police investigation into alleged illegal supplement purchases.

Niinami’s resignation was accepted by the company after authorities reportedly raided his home as part of the probe.

Suntory stated that while the matter is under investigation, the company determined that Niinami's actions demonstrated a lack of awareness regarding compliance and rendered him unable to continue in his leadership role.