Japan Hunts Bear After Fridge Raid Amid Break-in Spree

Japanese authorities are actively searching for a bear that entered the home of an elderly couple and raided their refrigerator, raising concerns that the animal may be responsible for a string of 14 break-ins that have occurred in the town over the past two weeks. The incident took place on Monday evening when Mitsuo Matsubara, 87, investigated a noise in his kitchen. He discovered the bear with his fridge open and food scattered on the floor. His wife subsequently contacted the police. Officials have deployed traps and electric fences in an effort to capture the animal, which is believed to be an Asiatic black bear. The repeated break-ins have heightened local anxiety, with residents fearing a persistent offender is at large. The investigation is ongoing as authorities work to locate and contain the bear to prevent further incidents and ensure public safety.