Screenshot of the safety alert from the Wechat account of the Consulate General of China in Sapporo

The Consulate General of China in Sapporo issued a notice on Tuesday advising Chinese nationals in its consular district to remain vigilant due to recent incidents involving wild bear attacks and other public safety concerns.

As temperatures rise in spring, wild animals such as bears have become more active in foraging after hibernation. Since April, hundreds of bear sightings have been reported across the consular district, with some bears entering urban areas and causing injuries. Additionally, people have been injured while foraging for wild vegetables, such as bamboo shoots, in mountainous areas, the Consulate General stated.

According to Japanese media reports, recent incidents in the consulate's district include a random assault in Kutchan Town, Hokkaido; hit-and-run accidents resulting in injuries or deaths in Sapporo, Morioka, and Akita; and cases of sexual harassment targeting young women in Sapporo and other areas.

On May 3, a man was injured when an unknown assailant slashed his back with a knife-like object on the streets of Kutchan Town, Hokkaido. The attacker fled the scene, and police are investigating it as an assault case, NHK reported.

The Consulate General in Sapporo urged Chinese citizens and tourists in the area to enhance precautions and prioritize their personal safety.

The Consulate General advised Chinese nationals to follow local laws and regulations, avoid traveling alone at night, and refrain from going to remote areas. If involved in a dispute, remain calm, handle the situation appropriately, ensure personal safety, and preserve evidence.

It also warned Chinese nationals to heed warning signs and not to enter restricted areas, primeval forests, or remote mountainous regions with weak or no mobile signal. Avoid solo outdoor activities such as hiking or foraging for wild vegetables, and inform family members of your destination and expected return time before setting out.

Additionally, the Consulate General recommended taking safety precautions when venturing into the wild, such as carrying bear bells, a radio, a whistle, and wearing brightly colored clothing. Keep a safe distance from wild animals and do not feed or provoke them to prevent accidental harm. If encountering a bear, stay calm, avoid screaming or running. Instead, slowly back away while facing the bear to avoid triggering an attack.


Global Times