Authorities in northern Japan are searching for an unusually clever bear that injured four people and then pulled off a dramatic escape from a factory where it had been cornered.
The bear, described by officials as “extremely intelligent,” attacked four people at two factories in Fukushima on Tuesday before taking refuge inside one of the buildings.
What followed was a high-stakes operation involving hunters and emergency responders armed with traps and anaesthetic guns. However, the animal repeatedly evaded capture, frustrating efforts to bring the situation under control.
Officials said the bear appeared to unlatch a window while attempting to escape and even turned on a water tap inside the facility, behaviour that stunned responders and contributed to its growing reputation as a remarkably resourceful animal.
Despite the extensive manhunt, the bear escaped late on Wednesday and remained at large as of Friday, prompting authorities to warn residents to remain vigilant.
The incident comes amid growing concerns over human-bear encounters in Japan. Last year, a record 13 people were killed in bear attacks across the country, while sightings have increased as hungry bears emerge from hibernation in search of food.
With the elusive animal still roaming free, authorities are continuing efforts to track and capture what many have dubbed Japan’s most wanted bear.
