Japan has deployed troops to the northern prefecture of Akita to help contain a sharp rise in bear attacks that have terrified residents and strained local authorities.
The unprecedented move comes as encounters with brown and Asiatic black bears surge ahead of the hibernation season, when the animals roam in search of food.
Bears have been spotted near schools, supermarkets, train stations and even a hot springs resort. Since April, at least 12 people have been killed and more than 100 injured in bear attacks across Japan, according to the Environment Ministry. Officials estimate the country’s bear population at more than 54,000.
The Defense Ministry and Akita Prefecture signed an agreement on Wednesday authorising Self-Defense Forces to assist with trapping and disposal efforts. Soldiers will set baited box traps, transport local hunters and handle carcass removal. They will not be permitted to shoot the animals.
Deputy Chief Cabinet Secretary Fumitoshi Sato described the situation as an urgent crisis, saying bear intrusions into residential areas are increasing daily.
The operation began in Kazuno, a heavily forested city where several residents have been injured. Soldiers wearing white helmets and bulletproof vests were seen deploying bear spray and net launchers near orchards.
Local farmers have reported heavy losses. Takahiro Ikeda, an orchard owner, said bears had eaten more than 200 apples that were ready for harvest. “My heart is broken,” he told NHK.
Akita’s governor, Kenta Suzuki, admitted local officials were growing desperate due to staff shortages. Defense Minister Shinjiro Koizumi said the mission aims to protect civilians but noted that Japan’s military remains focused on national defense and cannot sustain open-ended involvement in wildlife control. Other prefectures have not yet requested troop support.
