In response to a significant increase in bear sightings and attacks this year, the National Police Agency (NPA) is deploying armed riot police units to Akita and Iwate prefectures. This initiative aims to enhance public safety and support local authorities in managing wildlife-related incidents.
Starting November 13, specially trained officers will be authorized to use rifles if local hunters are unavailable or unable to respond swiftly. These officers, typically assigned to counterterrorism duties, will undergo training focused on bear behavior and participate in shooting drills designed for wildlife control.
The deployment includes two teams in each prefecture, rotating every two weeks with reinforcements from various regions across the country. This decision follows a recent policy change allowing police to use firearms for wildlife management, reflecting a proactive approach to bear encounters.
NPA chief Yoshinobu Kusunoki emphasized the importance of collaboration with local governments to ensure resident safety and mitigate further incidents involving bears. Each team consists of four personnel: two officers trained in rifle usage, a team commander, and a coordinator who works closely with local officials. These teams will collaborate with wildlife experts and local hunters enlisted by the authorities.
Local governments have expressed appreciation for the additional support, particularly in light of a dwindling number of hunters and increasing public safety concerns.
The uptick in bear activity has also affected sporting events across the region, prompting organizers to implement enhanced safety measures. The Tohoku high school ekiden (long-distance relay race) was relocated from a traditional road route to a secured track in suburban Akita on November 6. To deter bears, event organizers set up barricades and incorporated loud music, alongside firecracker sound effects, around the venue.
While some events faced cancellations, others continued with strict safety protocols. The Tendo La France Marathon in Yamagata Prefecture, which took place on November 2 with around 4,300 participants, focused heavily on safety measures, including the use of fireworks, loudspeakers, and patrolling local hunters.
This comprehensive approach demonstrates the commitment of both law enforcement and local authorities to address the challenges posed by bear encounters, prioritizing the safety of residents and event participants alike.