We just got informed that the Japanese government is currently investigating iPod models from Apple after one of the digital music players reportedly shot out sparks while recharging.

The issue will be handled by the country's trade and economy ministry. According to the official who wishes to be remain anonymous, they are suspecting that the defect happened in the lithium-ion battery in the iPod Nano, model number MA099J/A.

Similar occurrences in Japan had been reported as early as January. Apple's division in Japan did not contest the decision made by the ministry to subject iPod Nano models to investigations.

However, the division refused to comment further in the matter, aside from the assurance that they will see if same incidents have happened in other countries. The official also divulged that the iPod models being sold in their country were manufactured in China.

There's no information available, however, as to where the batteries came from. It was added that a total of 425,000 iPod Nano units of the same model have been shipped in to them.