Italy: Demonstration for the release of bear JJ4

After the capture of “problem bear” JJ4 in northern Italy, hundreds of people demonstrated in front of the game reserve for the release of the female bear.

According to the Ansa news agency, some 300 demonstrators had already gathered in front of the Casteller animal protection center on Sunday afternoon. They therefore demonstrated for the release of JJ4, who attacked and killed a jogger in early April, and against the Trentino provincial government led by Maurizio Fugatti, which advocates the killing of aggressive bears.

Several animal welfare organizations and individuals, some even from abroad, joined the protest, it was said. As shown in videos and photos, people took part in a parade up to the fence gate. On posters and banners they demanded the full release of all captive bears. “Bears are victims of the provincial government” or “Anyone who separates mothers and children is a monster” could be read on posters. JJ4 was separated from her three cubs during her capture.

JJ4, also known as Gaia and the sister of the “problem bear” Bruno who was killed in Bavaria in 2006, attacked and killed a 26-year-old jogger in Trentino in early April. Fugatti then ordered the animal killed. After a lawsuit by animal rights activists, a court suspended the shooting order.

The 17-year-old bear has been in the closed game enclosure since she was caught in mid-April. In addition to JJ4, there is another bear, M49. A hearing on her fate will take place on May 11. However, a heated and emotional discussion has erupted in Italy about the coexistence of bears and humans.

(yam/sda/dpa)