Japan’s Self-Defense Force members were dispatched to Akita Prefecture on November 5 to address an increasing number of bear attacks in the prefecture.

They will provide logistical support to municipalities and hunting associations responding to bear incidents, including transporting and setting up capture cages.

15 personnel from Camp Aita arrived as the first group. 

The SDF began work on November 5 in Kazuno City to relocate capture cages to different locations.

The commanding general of the Ground Self-Defense Force's 9th Division visited the Akita Prefectural Government Office and signed an agreement regarding logistical support activities.

GSDF 9th Division Commander Major General Matsunaga Yasunori / We intend to conduct our activities while considering various needs, aiming to be of service in any way we can.

Akita Prefecture has been beset by a surge of deadly bear attacks.

On November 3, a 79-year-old local was found dead in the mountains. 

She is believed to have been attacked by a bear as multiple wounds were found on the victim's  face and abdomen, and there were also marks on the body resembling animal bites. 

A 65-year-old man was also attacked in the City of Akita on the same day while he was trying to get on a car to go to work.