Overview
- An initial team of 15 soldiers arrived in Kazuno on November 5 to set and transport cage traps, ferry hunters, and move captured or killed bears.
- Troops carry spray, sticks, shields, and net launchers and do not bear firearms, leaving lethal removals to licensed hunters.
- Government data record more than 100 attacks since April and 12 deaths, the highest on record, with about two-thirds of fatalities in Akita and neighboring Iwate.
- Akita authorities report over 8,000 bear sightings this year, roughly six times the usual count, as residents are told to avoid forests, stay in after dark, and carry bells.
- The deployment is planned through the end of November with movements to Odate and Kitaakita expected following prefectural requests and a cabinet special session.