Japan sends troops to northern region to help stop bear attacks after a record number of casualties

Japan’s Defense Ministry is sending troops to Akita Prefecture in the country’s north to help contain a wave of bear attacks that have horrified residents of the mountainous region. Bear attacks have been reported almost daily across Japan, mainly in the north. Bears have appeared near schools, train stations, supermarkets and even a spa. Since April, more than 100 people have been injured and at least 12 killed, according to Environment Ministry statistics from late October.