Japan Mobilises Self‑Defense Forces in Kazuno to Contain Deadly Spike in Bear Attacks

Post by : Raina Nasser

The Japanese government has sent Self‑Defense Forces personnel to support local officials in Kazuno, in response to a recent wave of bear attacks that have resulted in 12 deaths and numerous injuries nationwide since April 2025. Authorities say the move aims to help manage bears entering populated zones.

Kazuno, a town of roughly 30,000 residents in Akita Prefecture, has recorded a marked escalation in bear encounters. Officials have urged people to avoid nearby woodlands, remain indoors after sunset and use deterrents such as bells. Akita reported more than 8,000 bear sightings this year — about six times previous levels — and two‑thirds of recent fatalities occurred in Akita and neighbouring Iwate Prefecture.

Deputy Chief Cabinet Secretary Kei Sato described the situation as urgent, noting higher rates of attacks and injuries require immediate intervention. Local authorities requested assistance from the Self‑Defense Forces, which are assisting with the transport, deployment and monitoring of box traps; licensed hunters will conduct the culling operations where necessary.

Officials report the incidents have grown more acute and unpredictable, with bears appearing in urban areas. There have been reports of animals entering supermarkets, attacking tourists at bus stops and injuring staff at hot spring resorts. Experts cite a mix of causes: expanding bear populations, climate‑related changes in natural food supplies and rural depopulation that has reduced the number of experienced hunters.

Japanese black bears, common across much of the country, can reach around 130 kilograms, while brown bears on Hokkaido can weigh as much as 400 kilograms. Japan has previously used military assets to support large‑scale wildlife control efforts, including logistical roles in deer culls and responses to animal disease outbreaks.

The current operation in Kazuno is intended to lower risks to residents while aiming for humane capture and removal of problematic animals. Authorities say the crisis underscores a broader challenge of human‑wildlife conflict driven by environmental shifts and demographic change.