Dedicated Interpol inspector Koichi Zenigata obsessively pursues master thief Lupin III, prioritizing this mission above all other duties. His relentless fixation manifests through refusals of reassignment or distractions, regardless of other criminal threats.

In *The Pursuit of Harimao's Treasure*, Zenigata's reduced role centers on comic relief rather than plot progression. His recurring preoccupation with preparing instant noodles distracts him from the treasure hunt involving Lupin, the Neo-Himmel neo-Nazi group, and retired British agent Sir Archer. This culinary fixation peaks when he repurposes a treasure-related artifact as a makeshift noodle-cup lid, emphasizing his detachment from the primary conflict.

Zenigata remains peripheral throughout the narrative, with minimal interaction with antagonists or the treasure hunt. Occasional story cuts to him never significantly influence the outcome. His habitual obsession surfaces during primary villain Hermann Von Diett's arrest, where he mistakenly shouts "You're under arrest, Lupin!" before correcting himself.

His broader franchise traits persist here: the adversarial-yet-respectful dynamic with Lupin remains implicit, surfacing only when Lupin appears in grave danger—reflecting Zenigata's need to capture the thief personally. These characteristics remain secondary to his comedic portrayal in this installment.