Osaka names pachinko parlors defying closure request despite pandemic

The Osaka prefectural government on Friday revealed the names of six pachinko parlors defying its request to shut, the first such move under Japan's state of emergency declaration to contain coronavirus.The harsh measure comes amid concerns that such noncompliant parlors have complicated efforts to discourage people from entering the western prefecture from its surrounding areas. Some other prefectures, including Tokyo, are prepared to take similar steps.Under the emergency declaration, effective through May 6, the Japanese government has asked people to avoid nonessential outings and some …READ FULL ARTICLE