Bear Killed After Two-Day Stay in Supermarket in Japan

December 2, 2024

By The South Asia Times T

TOKYO – A bear was trapped and killed on Monday after spending two days inside a supermarket in Japan’s Akita Prefecture, according to a report by Kyodo News.

Authorities deployed honey, apples, and bread as bait to lure the bear, which was eventually cornered in a storage area at the back of the supermarket. The store, located in the prefectural capital of Akita, had been the bear's temporary refuge since it entered the premises on Saturday morning while staff were preparing to open for the day.

The bear had reportedly made its way into the supermarket's meat section, where it foraged for food. During the incident, a 47-year-old male employee was attacked by the animal, suffering facial and other injuries. Police have confirmed the attack and have launched an investigation into the incident.

The bear's capture and subsequent killing have raised concerns about wildlife encroachment in urban areas. Authorities in Akita are working to prevent further incidents by implementing measures to protect both the public and wildlife.