Japan Authorizes Police Rifle Use as Bear Attacks Hit Record Toll

Overview

• Rules took effect Thursday, with local authorities confirming riot police in Akita and Iwate may now use rifles to shoot bears.
• The U.S. Embassy issued a wildlife alert and the U.K. advised travelers to avoid walking alone, while a zoo near the U.S. Consulate in Sapporo was closed after a nearby sighting.
• Since April, 13 people have been killed and more than 100 injured between April and September, with over 20,000 sightings reported in that span.
• Japan’s response includes Self‑Defense Forces support, traps and relocations, drones with loudspeakers, and a bilingual public bear‑sightings map.
• Recent incidents highlight the ongoing risk, including a cub near Iwate Hanamaki Airport that halted runway operations for over an hour and a Hokkaido ranch video showing a bear attacking a car without injuries.