Overview
- The revised National Public Safety Commission guidance took effect Thursday, allowing police to use rifles against bears under narrowly defined emergencies.
- Akita and Iwate prefectural forces held launch ceremonies for rifle-capable units, with Akita’s team organized into two four-officer groups under the Police Duties Execution Law.
- Officers are authorized to shoot only when residents face immediate danger or when licensed hunters cannot respond.
- Japan has recorded 13 bear-related deaths since April, with scientists citing a poor acorn harvest, a growing bear population, and rural depopulation as key drivers.
- Disruptions continued with a runway closure after a bear cub sighting near Iwate Hanamaki Airport and a zoo shutdown in Sapporo, while the US and UK issued public advisories.