Overview
- Akita Governor Kenta Suzuki formally asked the Self-Defense Forces for support, saying local authorities can no longer protect residents without military help.
- Defense Minister Shinjiro Koizumi said the government will use available capabilities and authorities to restore public safety.
- Ten people have been killed in bear attacks in Japan this year, the highest since recordkeeping began in 2006, and reports cite more than 100 injuries.
- Bears are increasingly entering populated areas, with sightings and attacks reported in shops and near parks and schools.
- Authorities are distributing bear‑deterrent spray, issuing warnings, and planning stronger population control and hunter training, while experts advise not running, avoiding eye contact, and, if attacked, lying face down to reduce injuries as supported by an Akita University study.