Bear Attacks in Northeast Japan Prompt Safety Warnings

Authorities close off wooded areas and urge residents to take precautions after fatality and police injuries.

A man was found dead with gash wounds after hunting for bamboo shoots in the mountains.
Two police officers were seriously injured while recovering the man's body in Kazuno, Akita Prefecture.
Authorities have closed some wooded areas and deployed patrol cars and helicopters to locate the bears.
Residents are advised to avoid going out at night and to carry noise-making devices to deter bears.
The increase in bear encounters is attributed to habitat encroachment and food scarcity, possibly linked to climate change.